Choosing a pearl necklace begins with understanding how a pearl is formed. This precious 'stone' is born from the formation of nacre within an oyster. With the class and elegance that a pearl necklace brings, there is little wonder why this piece of accessory is highly sought-after by women the world over.

When you're choosing a pearl necklace, it is important to know the basics of pearls. There are naturally produced pearls, cultured pearls and synthetic pearls. These range from the highest in value to the lowest (in that order). Because natural pearls are rare, cultured pearls are a popular choice as it is very difficult to tell a natural pearl from a cultured one. Pearls can be formed in saltwater or in freshwater with saltwater versions being more expensive.

A key to learning how to buy a pearl necklace comes in choosing one whose length is flattering to your individual body type - whether you have a long neck, short neck or wide neck, how old you are and your overall physical make-up. As a general guideline, long necklaces like the rope and the opera will elongate a short neck while short necklaces like the collar and choker varieties help flatter longer necks.

When choosing a pearl necklace, it is critical to select a length that flatters your age, neck shape and length, and physique. Shorter necklaces tend to suit long necks while long necklaces help to elongate the neck (for people with short necks). The collar-type necklace is the shortest at 10 to 13 inches long while the longest - rope - can be more than 37 inches in length. If you're looking for a necklace to suit almost anyone, then one between 18 and 24 inches long will do.

If you're wondering how to buy a pearl necklace for semi-formal or corporate wear, then the matinee (20" - 24") will be ideal. Remember the rule-of-thumb; longer thinner necks are flattered by shorter necklaces that sit at the base of the neck while shorter necks look best with longer necklaces - at least 2 inches below the collarbone.

If you're choosing a pearl necklace to wear with corporate or business outfits, or for semi-formal events, then the matinee length is ideal. The rule-of-thumb goes that people with short necks should wear necklaces that sit at least 2 inches below the collarbone while people with longer necks should wear necklaces that sit at the base of the neck.

One of the world's highest quality pearls, renown for their beauty and brilliance, are cultivated by Mikimoto. With fans from the British and Japanese royal families, a high-grade Mikimoto pearl necklace has been known to have an almost mirror-like reflective quality.

Beautiful black, gray and green-black pearls are known as Tahitian pearls, named after the island of Tahiti. These are grown from black-lipped oysters and how to buy a pearl necklace made of Tahitian pearls is to look out for their luster, clarity and mirror-like sheen as well as for any flaws like discoloration, spots, scratches, bumps and other irregularities.

Buying a pearl necklace requires an investment and a keen eye. However, there are ways to attain the class and elegance of pearl jewelry on a budget. Here's how to buy a pearl necklace at a budget that suits you. Buying a set - necklace, earrings, bracelet or ring - can give you an entryway to bargaining for a better price than if you were to buy just one piece alone. You can also look out for direct suppliers to procure your pearl necklace from as these suppliers charge less per piece than regular retailers.