PaQuality of the product

The difference in quality of pearls is easier to see than that of diamonds, and can be seen with the naked eye. A set of necklaces can cost anywhere from around 10,000 yen to several million yen, but when you line them up side by side, the difference is obvious!
However, there are some that are easy to understand at a glance and some that are a little difficult to understand, so I will explain them step by step. Also, Hojudo's official Instagram account has a special feature on the quality of pearls. I will post a link, so please take a look.Listplease.

1. Size
on second thoughtsThe size is the easiest to understand at a glanceThe larger the pearl, the more luxurious it is, and the higher the price. Akoya pearls, which are representative of Japan, have a maximum diameter of about 11 mm.For single pearl strands, the average is 7.0mm to 7.5mmIf the pearl size exceeds 9mm, it will be much more expensive due to its rarity. Small pearls are around 3mm and are called baby pearls and are often used in casual settings. If you are looking for large pearls of 10mm or more,south sea pearlIt is recommended to choose a size that is approximately 11mm to 13mm. Most are around 19mm in size, with the larger ones being around 19mm. Even a 1mm change in size can make a big difference in the look, so be sure to compare them before making your selection.

▼Official Instagram Pearl Special Feature〈Size〉


If you are looking for a string of pearl necklaces and are worried about the size and length, please read the following article.Please take a look.

▼ Pearl etiquette for formal occasions




2. Teri

The next most obvious difference after size isLusterThis is the difference between the quality of pearls.The most important criterionWithout luster, pearls are cloudy white and create a dark atmosphere when worn. However, it is because of luster that pearls appear elegant and refined. The Pearl Science Institute, the highest authority on pearl appraisal in Japan, also places great importance on the luster standard,The strongest class of Terry has a special name called "Aurora.".
The factors that affect this luster and gloss are:"Thick Maki".
Pearls have a layer of nacre wrapped around the nucleus. The thickness of this layer is called nacre thickness, and the thicker it is, the deeper the luster it will have and the higher its value. On the other hand, if the nacre thickness is thin (thinly wrapped), the luster will be weaker and it will deteriorate faster. However, a thick layer does not necessarily mean beautiful (some pearls are cloudy just because they are thick). "Nacre thickness" is simply the thickness of the nacre layer. Don't judge by the nacre thickness alone, but actually look at it with your own eyes.

▼Official Instagram Pearl Special Feature〈Shining Edition〉
▼Official Instagram Pearl Special Feature〈Maki Edition〉



3. Dimples (scars)

At first glance, you won't notice any difference, like size or luster, but if you look closely, you'll notice some dents and protrusions.dimplesIf you are particular about it, it is better to check the condition of your dimples as well.

▼Official Instagram Pearl Special Feature〈Dimples Edition〉



4. Shape

The shapes are roughly divided intoRound (perfect circle),Semi-round (almost perfectly round),Semi-baroque (slightly modified),Baroque (variant)Round ones are more expensive and have a more formal feel, soFor ceremonial occasions, round or semi-round glasses are used.Let's do this.
If you want to create a casual look for everyday use, baroque is a stylish option.

▼Official Instagram Pearl Special Feature〈Shape〉

trueSpecial designation of pearls (Pearl Science Institute)

Among pearlsThose with particularly high quality are given a "special designation."There are many names for each type of pearl, and they also vary depending on the appraisal agency. Here we will introduce the most famous and trustedPearl Science InstituteUsing the name ofAmong them, we would like to recommend some special names.Let me explain.


1. Aurora Hanadama (Akoya pearls/white)
High-quality pearls have long been called Hanadama, and this is the most familiar name. Aurora Hanadama is the highest quality white pearl with the strongest luster, but there is variation in quality, so we recommend checking the actual product.

▼Hojudo's Aurora Hanadama


2. Aurora Tennyo (Akoya pearl/white)
This is also the highest quality white pearl with the strongest luster, and is a designation given to Hanadama pearls with particularly strong luster. It is one of the top Akoya pearls, and its beauty is immediately apparent at a glance. Although it is expensive, it is recommended for those looking for a lifetime supply of the highest quality Akoya pearls.

▼Aurora Tennyo at Hojudo


3. Aurora Venus (White South Sea pearl/Silver)
Aurora Venus is the finest South Sea white pearl. It is larger than Akoya pearls and recommended for those seeking the highest quality.


4. Aurora Brown Gold (White South Sea Pearl/Golden Pearl)
Aurora Brown Gold is the highest quality golden pearl. It is also known as "Creamy Pink" in the West. Its divine brownish gold color and deep luster are gorgeous, yet somehow also give off a calming atmosphere.


5. Aurora Lagoon (Black Pearl/Green)
Aurora Lagoon is the highest quality black pearl. Although it is a black pearl, it has a subdued greenish color, but the luster that emerges from deep within the pearl, combined with the black color, adds to its luxurious feel.


6. Aurora Peacock (Black Pearl/Green)
Among black pearls, Peacock may be more familiar. As its name suggests, Peacock is based on green with hints of yellow and red, and is characterized by its beauty reminiscent of a peacock's feathers. If you prefer a more subdued color in black pearls, we recommend Lagoon, while for those seeking a more vibrant look, we recommend Peacock.

toneAbout Color and Uncolored

When researching pearls, you often hear the term "uncolored."

We often get questions from customers such as, "I've heard a lot about color-free paint, but what does it mean?"
In short, "untoned colors are beautiful even without toning treatment." We often use the expression "toned colors = makeup." In other words, untoned colors are beautiful even without makeup, a natural beauty.
After pearls are extracted from oysters and subjected to a base treatment, they undergo a "color-matching" process to bring out the natural beauty of the pearls (they are not actually colored). Most pearls undergo color-matching to create a uniform color, and are then tied together in a necklace.
On the other hand, untinted pearls are beautiful enough without any tinting treatment, so no further work is required. Because they are rare, they are more expensive than tinted pearls. In appearance, the recent trend is that tinted pearls are slightly pink, while untinted pearls are slightly yellowish.
As you can see, toning and non-toning are just a matter of technique, and it doesn't mean that toned pearls are of lower quality. For those looking for rare pearls or those who are averse to pink, we recommend non-toned pearls, but it's a good idea to actually try them out to see how they match your skin.

Hojudo carries both tinted and non-tinted pearls, so be sure to compare them.

▼Hojudo pearl necklace