Although the reviews were a bit mixed, I purchased this keeping Amazon's return policy in mind. My expectations were definitely exceeded and I am keeping it! The best part is the pearl quality- they have a great lustre that can't be imitated by costume jewelry. The color is all uniform and blemishes are minimal. The pearls are well matched and the sizing is appropriate for the graduation. I wore this to a holiday party and received several compliments.

The reason I give this 4 stars and not 5 is the stringing of the necklace. It does not lay perfectly flat, part of which I attribute to storing in a bag and part of which is probably due to quality. However, the weight of the pearls straightens it out when wearing. I will be storing this in a flat box, rather than the bag it comes in.

It was worth the purchase, and I am glad I have a strand of pearls that I don't feel anxious wearing. I have yet to wear my $400 pearls more than once, but will wear these often!