Is there a real difference between these two necklaces?

[MerylSqueak]

I want a simple pendant necklace in silver to wear with a couple if shirts I have and quite fancy a simple pearl.

Do you think the more expensive necklace will be a better quality? I really can't see much difference between them but do want something that will last.

The second has more of a creamy tone which I assume is a more expensive look. First one is fine though.

2nd one much nicer imo

Well, one is actual Pearl and the other is sterling silver in the shape of a pearl- I think they would look quite different in real life, both in colour and sheen?

V hard to tell as could just be the quality of the photo! Personally I tend to think there is little different between ‘cheaper’ and ‘midrange’ jewellery apart from marketing. I’d buy the cheaper one and change the chain if needed.

Yes I do agree about the colour but there are dozens similar on Etsy at a similar price. I'm just wondering if there's just a huge mark up at that shop. I've never seen it in real life.

It's a pearl. It's just the listing is a bit unclear.

The second one is much nicer.

I like the first one, the grey one.

Is the size of the pearl significantly different? The 2nd one is described as 'large pearl'. Without something in the pic to see the size, or ruler, or other listing of dimensions... Might be worth checking if this would be a factor for you.

There is an enormous mark up on most jewellery. Chinese pearls are very cheap and silver is not particular expensive.

That said, the quality can very enormously - and things like the strength of the chain can change how long it lasts. With a pendant of course you can always replace the chain.

If it were me and I was buying them I would get the cheaper one and send it back if I didn't like it and try the more expensive one. You're getting the same look, and if you lose it or damage it with perfume or some such, you can replace it twice for the same cost.

Go with your heart though. It's a completely unnecessary luxury to make you feel good. So get the one that you think you will enjoy more.

Btw, it wasn't a criticism saying it was am unnecessary luxury. We all need some. Just that the whole purpose of it is to make you feel nice when wearing it. So get the one you want and will make you feel nice.

The first one is a simulated pearl (a bead, basically). It'll most likely peel at some point. The second is a real, freshwater pearl.

If you're looking for longevity, go for the second one.

First one is a simulated pearl according to etsy, second is a real pearl.

Real pearls can be a bit fragile they're calcium carbonate so vulnerable to heat and even mild acids like vinegar. Conversely, wearing them can give them a protective coating of oil from your skin.

Be careful with Etsy jewellery. My dh bought me some earrings from Etsy and when they arrived they looked nothing like the photos. Turns out they were the same earrings but they had been photographed in such a way to completely change the appearance.

DH got his money back after seller said that the photos hadn't been altered and dh took photos and sent them to her and asked what photo app she had used 😂

The basic materials to make the expensive one would cost under a fiver, and it would take less than a minute to assemble. You should be able to find one on Etsy for around £20, with a real pearl and a nice gift box. I used to have an Etsy shop, and I would have priced this around that mark (maybe less, actually).

Makes me laugh seeing faux pearls on sterling silver. Real pearls are really not expensive to buy! £70 is ludicrous.

I like the second one which has a bit through the pearl securing it. The first one looks like it’s stuck on.

Yes that's the bit I notice.

Thanks for your ideas.

Looking at the pearl setting I would say the first is drilled with the silver Post glued in the second looks like the post goes all the way through so I would say the second has more potential for longevity