Pearl Jewellery Guide
Pearl jewellery have been prized for thousands of years and are a symbol of wealth and luxury. Pearls beautiful rounded shapes come in a variety of colours, including white, cream, pink, silver, gold, black, and even rare hues like blue and green. The colour depends on the type of mollusk and the environment. Natural pearls have been used on clothes for centuries however their rarity meant they were received for the rich and royalty. The commercial production of cultured pearls from the early 1900s means today everyone can enjoy their elegance.
Where do pearls come from?
Cultured fresh water pearls mostly come from China who are the largest producers in the world. The majority of cultured saltwater pearls come from pearl farms located in regions such as Japan (Akoya pearls), Australia (South Sea pearls), French Polynesia (Tahitian pearls), and Indonesia (South Sea pearls).
Are pearls natural?
Natural pearls are rare and valuable, they form when an irritant such as a parasite or debris enters the mollusk's shell, prompting the secretion of nacre to coat it and subsequently the pearl is formed. Cultured Pearls are cultivated by implanting a nucleus (often a polished piece of shell or bead) into the mollusk, which stimulates the secretion of nacre, resulting in the growth of a pearl. Culturing techniques may vary but they require specific conditions and care.
Is pearl jewellery expensive?
There are a number of factors which make up the price of pearl jewellery:
Lustre - The stronger the lustre the more expensive a pearl is.
Size - They are measured in mm size with the more expensive ones being larger and rarer.
Shape - Their shape also plays a part with the perfectly rounded ones being highly prized
Surface quality - This refers to the blemishes and dimple marks
Origin - Chinese freshwater pearls are the cheapest with Japanese, Australian and Tahitian all commanding much more money.
While pearls can be quite expensive, especially high-quality and rare ones, there is a wide range of options available to suit various budgets. Whether you are looking for a simple strand of freshwater pearls or an exquisite set of South Sea pearls we have a large range of pearl jewellery to suit all budgets.
Why choose pearl jewellery?
Choosing pearl jewellery is a decision rooted in their timeless elegance, cultural significance, and symbolic meanings. Whether as a personal indulgence, a thoughtful gift, or a long-term investment, pearls offer a captivating allure that continues to captivate admirers around the world.