Round and flat like a coin, coin pearls are a cut above your average freshwater pearl and thus add an elite distinction to the jewelry pieces they enhance. Unlike most freshwater pearls, coin pearls are created from a bead nucleus.

In contrast, stick pearls are classic freshwater pearls that are long and thin with an irregular shape. The stick pearls in this necklace come from Lake Biwa in Japan.

• Alternating creamy white and pink biwa stick pearls
• Aquamarine and light amethyst colored Swarovski crystals, along with cobalt blue cloisonné and vermeil beads accent this piece
• 14k gold-filled wire chain
• One-of-a-kind piece with very limited availability
• Available exclusively through Blue Gobi, this piece cannot be found anywhere else
• Handmade by Zachary Bloom in the USA

The porous nature of pearls demands extra care. To maintain their luster: 1) avoid exposure to household chemicals like hair spray, perfume and cleaning products; 2) gently wipe them gently with a warm damp cloth to remove body oils and perspiration; 3) when storing, keep them separate from other gemstones and metals that may scratch them.

The same care tips apply to the Swarovski crystals in this necklace. However, if your crystals become dirty, you may wash them occasionally with warm water, a mild detergent and a soft toothbrush.

Avoid vigorous polishing of your vermeil/gold-filled jewelry so as not to destroy the gold coating, and never expose it to moisture. Keeping it in a zip-lock bag will prevent moisture and humidity from attacking it.