I want to wear pearls. Are they affordable?
Yes! Fortunately for pearl lovers, there’s no better time to buy pearls. Compared with many other gems, pearls are very affordable. (At Moon River Pearls, an AAA quality 18" necklace made with 6.5 mm pearls is $135.) Simple pearl studs, a single-strand pearl bracelet and a single-strand pearl necklace made with 6.5 mm cultured pearls are all affordable options; many stores and websites offer pearl sets for a discount.

Whatever your budget, keep in mind that, unlike your wedding shoes or tiara, you can wear pearls for years to come, and even pass them on to future generations, so spending a little extra for a quality piece is worth it. Of course, another option is to ask your mother or grandmother to loan you her pearls, and wear them as your "something borrowed."

Want the advice of a wedding jewelry consultant? E-mail bridal@moonriverpearls.com for personal recommendations.