do you want gold posts, or would be content with silver drop findings? that will make quite a difference in value. as noted, gold is through the roof right now, but various qualities of freshwater or other cultured pearls are available. as noted above, Fire Mountain Gems sells online as well as by catalog. I also like Art Gems for beads and findings. those prices appear consistent with a retail jeweler's pricing, for AAA or better quality pearls. those of us addicted to making our own stuff would find it a little high.
cultured pearls have become pretty much the norm with better farming practices. completely natural pearls are way outa my price range, unless I find them at estate sales or flea markets.
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mmmag
some additional thoughts...
Date: 2008-02-20 11:33 pm (UTC)as noted, gold is through the roof right now, but various qualities of freshwater or other cultured pearls are available.
as noted above, Fire Mountain Gems sells online as well as by catalog.
I also like Art Gems for beads and findings.
those prices appear consistent with a retail jeweler's pricing, for AAA or better quality pearls.
those of us addicted to making our own stuff would find it a little high.
cultured pearls have become pretty much the norm with better farming practices. completely natural pearls are way outa my price range, unless I find them at estate sales or flea markets.