Tip for WDW pearl jewelery buyers

[DianaPrincessofWales]

Once in awhile I see a thread about the pearl jewelery available in a few places around WDW. Over the last few trips I have boughten a few pieces. In 2000 I bought a nice big pearl and had it made into a ring from the DTD pearl hut (cost-right under 200$). Then in 2003 my husband did this as a surprise and got 2 pearls in one shell and had earrings made (cost around 50$). In Nov of 2004 I was tempted to buy another one at the Japan store at Epcot. I did pick a pearl but I told them I really didn't like any of the pendant holders they had (cost of these was inbetween 30-80$). No problem, they didn't preasure me. So I took it home in a baggy.

Fast forward a few months. I decide to have it looked at by a local jewelery store (Helzburg) and maybe get a setting made, also for a pendant. I have several chains so I don't need another. Well I was totally blown away by how much they wanted just to have it set!! That's not even including the pearl itself! 300$!!! Doesn't that sound unbelievably high? They said because of the weight (in gold)of the pearl clasp jaw. I really wanted to choke, but I just smiled and thanked him for his time! Yikes!

Lesson learned here........you might as well have something done with the pearls you buy while you are there. It beats it sitting in a baggy!! I will take my pearl back to WDW on my next trip and see if I like any of the settings this time.

 

[goofy4tink]

I had a very nice necklace made for my dd using her black pearl from Epcot. It wasn't anything special, just a decent chain and the pearl mounted with a holder type thingie. I think it cost in the neighborhood of about $35. The one you were quoted for must have been very nice indeed!!!

 

[FLAsomeday]

I have boughten

 

[Fire14]

I had earrings made from mine it it cost me 20.00 I believe.