Let me introduce you to pearls
From ancient times to the present, pearls have been loved by people. Besides being symbols of different cultures, there are many benefits to wearing pearls. The ancients believed that pearls were gifts from the sea that could improve the wearer's health and have a beautifying and skin-nourishing effect.
The Difference Between Saltwater Pearls and Freshwater Pearls
Natural pearls are mainly produced naturally by various shellfish. According to their formation process, source and appearance, they can be divided into two major categories:
Seawater Pearls
As the name suggests, saltwater pearls are pearls formed in the ocean. Their production is relatively rare, and most of them are now cultured with nuclei. The uniqueness of seawater pearls lies in their luster and color, which makes them look more watery and full of mystery. It is worth mentioning that saltwater pearls have different names depending on their origin and rating.
In terms of color, saltwater pearls come in a variety of shades, from elegant white and gold to mysterious black and even subtle green or blue. These color changes are mainly affected by the type of mollusk and its growth environment, making each seawater pearl exude a charming luster and possess a unique mysterious temperament.
Freshwater Pearls
The output of freshwater pearls is greater than that of seawater pearls, and they are mainly cultivated without nucleus. Freshwater pearls are produced in high quantities, so they may be more affordable than saltwater pearls. But the final value still depends on its size and quality.
Compared to saltwater pearls, freshwater pearls have a softer luster. Pearls come in a variety of shades and sheens, including: pearl white with a creamy sheen; cyan, which is a warm hue; pink, which is white with a hint of pink; and silvery blue, which has a cool hue. Generally speaking, pearls with nuclei are cooler white in color, while pearls without nuclei tend to be off-white. For example, silvery blue is common in pearls with nuclei, while cyan is characteristic of pearls without nuclei. Pink pearls are a relatively rare color.
Classic natural pearl types
Natural pearls have a natural luster and unique texture on the surface. They come in various colors and shapes and have unique personalities. The most popular ones are as follows:
Akoya Pearls
Akoya pearls originated in Japan and are famous for their luster and shine, and are known as "little light bulbs". There are many categories of Akoya pearls, including: smallpox, flower beads, colorful beads, mantoma, colorful cloud beads, blue roses, queen beads, aurora roses, and northern lights beads. Each one has its own characteristics of corresponding color and gloss. Behind these names are the natural pearl identification standards set by the Japanese Pearl Grading Agency.
Baroque Pearls
Baroque pearls, in short, are natural pearls with irregular shapes. Different from the usual round pearls, the unique shape of each baroque pearl brings a sense of fantasy and fully demonstrates its uniqueness. Its imperfections make it unique and serve as inspiration for many designers. At the same time, there are some baroque pearls with special shapes and colors, such as the puzzle-like shape in the picture, which are more valuable because of their specialness.
Tahitian Pearls
Tahitian pearls appear different in color and radiance when held in soft light and without other distractions. There are many beautiful Tahitian pearls, but at the same time, there are so many shapes and types to choose from that it can be overwhelming. The shapes of Tahitian pearls include: round, hemispherical, oval, button, teardrop, baroque, etc. This pearl is also called "black pearl" in the market, but if you look closely, you will find that the color range is actually very wide, it can be said to be "colorful black". The size of Tahitian pearls generally ranges from 8 to 14 mm, and those over 18 mm are extremely rare.
South Sea Pearls
As the name suggests, South Sea pearls are produced in the South Pacific. Known as the king of pearls, they come in colors such as gold, silver, rose and bronze. South Sea pearls are the largest type of mother-of-pearl, and the golden ones are the finest natural pearls, possessing an imperial aura and nobility. Because the glossiness of the surface of South Sea pearls changes over time, flawless South Sea pearls are extremely rare.
Pearl quality
When evaluating the quality of pearls, there are several key factors to consider:
1. Gloss
High-quality natural pearls should have a bright and clear luster that reflects light and shows deep color. The brighter the pearl skin is, the rounder and smoother it is, and the more it can reflect light, which means the quality of the pearl is better.
2. Shape
The shapes of natural pearls include round, semi-circular, oval, button-shaped, teardrop-shaped, etc. Round pearls are generally the most common, and the rounder they are, the more valuable they are considered. But irregularly shaped baroque pearls are also loved for their uniqueness, allowing for more distinctive jewelry designs.
3. Size
The size or volume of natural pearls is usually measured in millimeters (mm), and larger pearls are naturally considered to have higher market value. Moreover, a small number of pearls larger than 18mm are regarded as rare treasures. However, as jewelry accessories, large pearls have the beauty of large pearls, and small pearls have the delicacy of small pearls.
4. Color
Pearls of different colors may have different values in the market, especially pearls with dark or rare colors are often more attractive. But this is just based on personal preference. From white to black, colorful pearls, whether freshwater pearls or saltwater pearls, are loved by everyone.
How to care for pearls
When collecting, in order to prevent pearls from colliding with other jewelry in the jewelry box and being damaged, the pearls should be properly stored in a soft cloth bag or a special jewelry box to prevent friction and collision. After that, take it out and wear it from time to time to allow the pearls to breathe and better absorb the moisture in the space.
But never expose natural pearls to chemicals: such as perfume, detergents, cosmetics, etc. These chemicals can make the pearl surface more susceptible to breakage and damage. If you must wear makeup, do it first, then wear the pearls, and then take them off after the event.
In addition, you should also regularly wipe the pearls with a soft dry cloth to remove dirt and grease to maintain its luster. If conditions permit, it is recommended to send them to a professional jewelry store for cleaning and inspection to ensure that natural pearls can maintain their beauty and brilliance for a long time.
Pearl jewelry style recommendations
Tahitian Pearl Sterling Silver Necklace
Want to own saltwater pearls at freshwater pearl prices? The color of this natural pearl is an elegant platinum-grey hue with a gentle and attractive green hue. Moreover, the design of the necklace is simple and elegant, the lines of the necklace are smooth, the pendant clasp and the pearls complement each other, and the overall style is intellectual and calm, which is especially suitable for you who are noble and elegant! It is very suitable for daily wear or special occasions.
Akoya Seawater Pearl Sterling Silver Bracelet
This pair of Akoya Seawater Pearl Sterling Silver Bracelet looks small and elegant, adding a touch of sophistication to your simple outfit. They are made of high-quality silver metal and inlaid with a row of grey pearls, exuding a calm and elegant temperament. At the same time, the size and shape of this natural pearl are just right. The overall design is simple and elegant, yet delicate, making it especially suitable for daily wear.
Natural Agate and Pearl Bracelet
This natural Agate and Pearl Bracelet is matched with each other, showing a fresh style while also having a unique artistic conception. This is because the special pattern of agate is printed with a light grapefruit color, and the tree branch-like texture looks like dragon patterns, which is really unique. Therefore, this special agate is called dragon pattern agate. The irregularly shaped small pearls make each bracelet unique. In addition, this bracelet has imported gold-plated accessories, which are both color-preserving and anti-sensitive. It is a fine product suitable for everyone!
Colorful Braided Pearl Bracelet
This retro woven design paired with natural pink and purple pearls shows unique elegance and charm while retaining a girlish feel. Purple and pink natural freshwater pearls are woven together to add a feminine touch to your look. The size of the small pearls adds a touch of sophistication to the bracelet, making it perfect for everyday wear.
South Sea 18k Gold Pearl Earrings
This pair of South Sea pearl earrings can help you show a dignified and elegant image whether you are matching it with a formal occasion or embellishing your daily casual outfit. Whether it is the name or the appearance, it looks very noble. This natural pearl is very suitable whether it is used as a gift or for personal use. South Sea Gold Pearls are produced in the South Pacific, Australia and Indonesia. They are golden sea pearls and are extremely valuable.