Mikimoto "Japan" 7mm A+ Akoya Pearl Pendant Necklace in 18kt Yellow Gold. 16"

18KT: Karat (abbreviated kt or K) is a unit that indicates the purity of gold in the metal. 18kt is 75% gold. In Europe, 18K yellow gold is most favored and used in jewelry.

YELLOW GOLD: Gold is a precious metal with a natural yellow color. It is quite soft and often alloyed with other metals to increase its strength. The purity of the metal is indicated by a unit called a "karat," with 24kt having the highest percentage of natural gold.

CABLE: One of the most popular and classic of chain styles, created from interlocking oval links unvarying in size.

SPRINGRING CLASP: Invented in the early 1900s this diminutive device is highly effective. It's a hollow circular metal fastener with a spring opening. This keeps the clasp closed.

FIXED: A bale that is worked into the actual design of a pendant. Typically seen in slide pendants.

AKOYA PEARLS: a true classic, the akoya pearl was the first pearl to be cultured in the salt waters of Japan. Smooth, round and highly lustrous, akoya pearls captivate in traditional pearl jewelry designs, such as necklaces, bracelets and stud earrings. Pearl is the traditional birthstone for June.