Pearls which possess a uniquely delicate translucence and luster place them among the most highly valued gemstones. Pearls are the birthstone of June, the perfect gift for any occasion and provide an elegant touch to any outfit.
Natural Pearls
Natural Pearls caused by a grain of sand are extremely rare. Throughout history, these pearls were worn by royalty and in Roman times were believed to be more valuable than diamonds. Today natural pearls are highly expensive and are almost impossible to find. Currently, all pearls sold commercially are either cultured in seawater or freshwater, so what’s the difference?
Saltwater Pearls
Mr K Mikimoto revolutionised the pearl industry when he took a tiny bead and planted it into the oyster shell. The oyster layers its luster around the bead-like tiny fish scales which creates a pearl’s shine and colour. Rub a pearl against your teeth, if it feels slightly coarse you know the pearl is genuine. The oysters themselves are not cultivated and are left to grow the pearl naturally, making seawater pearls pricier than freshwater pearls.
Freshwater Pearls
Fresh water pearls are cultivated in lakes or rivers and are becoming more and more popular. The muscles used are re-usable and can produce many pearls, and they can culture freshwater pearls in all different shapes and sizes. It is now possible to get freshwater pearls up to 10mm in size as well as various colours. Cultured freshwater pearls can be dyed yellow, green, blue, brown, pink, purple or black. Black pearls are mostly cultured because they are so rare in nature. In fact, black pearls aren’t actually black but rather a combination of green, purple, blue or silver.
South Sea Island Pearls
South Sea pearls are special extra-large pearls that can only be cultured in the wild. The oyster used can live up to 5 years and weigh 5kg with a 30cm diameter. They are suspended in wire baskets for at least 3 years. Tahitian South Sea Island pearls are cultured in French Polynesia and produce black, grey/green and various magnificent colours. The White South Sea Island Pearls with silver, rose and gold hues are found off the Australian Coast in the South China Sea’s and are 5 times rarer and more valuable.
Expert Tips
We advise keeping your pearls away from perfume and hairspray, and wiping with distilled water using a soft cloth to maintain their natural luster. Pearls must be strung with knots between to protect the pearls from rubbing against each other. Pearls should ideally be restrung once a year as the string can become discoloured.
Bring your pearls into Jack Friedman for your next restringing or shop our new Pearl Collection here (insert web link).
