Because I make pearl jewelry, the $30 price for this necklace was perfect. 100 inches of very round, smooth-skinned and lustrous pearls (5-5.5mm)would cost me at least $125 at local bead shops, because each 16 inch string costs about $20. Brides-to-be on a budget need to know this 100 inch necklace breaks down to about $4.80 per 16 inches. Because the necklace isn't knotted between each pearl, and is instead knotted sporadically, it's very easy to take apart for restringing. Please note the colors pictured are much darker than the pearls are in the necklace I received--mine has softer, pastel tones ranging from pure cream to light peach, pale golden peach, baby blanket pink and soft mauve. Careful inspection of the drill holes under magnification shows that the pearls in my necklace are actually natural colors; the pearls aren't dyed. The nacre is an acceptable thickness (think department store or A grade).

As other reviewers have stated, the necklace is a giftable bargain on its own, and at the full 100 inches is very versatile if a bit stiff when new. Some women might find that the necklace not knotted between each pearl leads to neck hairs being pulled, but a blouse or shirt with a collar helps if that's a problem. The necklace arrives in a plastic baggie, which shouldn't be used to store your pearls after you receive them; a velvet or satin pouch is better for long term storage.

Overall, the plusses for this necklace are quality, value and versatility at an affordable price. The only minus might be either lack of knotting between each pearl or stiffness when new if wearing it as a rope of pearls. For price alone, though, this is an excellent necklace to take apart and restring into bridal party jewelry... especially if you are or know a beader. You can get four 18 inch necklaces plus four seven inch bracelets from one $30 necklace.