I love pearls- the luster, the smooth countenance, and the mystery all combine to make them a sought after gem.
A symbol in China as a protective gem, in Greek culture a romantic symbol associated with love, and in Rome, those in possession of pearls were considered to have achieved wealth and social recognition with these gems. For me, I feel that classic styles are missing an element absent a piece of pearl jewelry, especially on a wedding day.
To understand pearls requires digging a bit into their origins.
In pearl history, the main oyster beds lay in the Persian Gulf, along the coasts of India and Sri Lanka, and in the Red Sea. Chinese pearls come from freshwater rivers and ponds, whereas Japanese pearls are found near the coast in salt water.
So what is the difference between freshwater pearls, and their more expensive counterpart, salt water pearls?
With freshwater pearls, the mussels are introduced to a foreign object, and nacre continues to build, creating the pearl. As many as a few dozen plus freshwater pearls can be created in a single mussel.
Unlike their freshwater counterparts, salt water pearls are often 1-2 pearls in an oyster. This rarity creates desirability, and salt water pearls come to fruition in several locations.
Japanese Akoya pearls offer a very rounded shape, and are among the most popular offering, found in Japan and China.
South Sea pearls are found deep in the ocean, in the Philippines (golden color) and off of the coast of Australia (cream colored). Due to the rarity, these are highly prized.
The black Tahitian pearl is another rare and popular pearl, found in Tahiti and other French Polynesian islands.
One of my favorites? Baroque pearls- each is so unique, none are exactly the same, and the shapes can be untamed- very unusual! Check out our baroque pearls coupled with hoops:
With so many options, pearls are not unlike diamonds, or any other gemstone- personal preference and a sense of "that's the one" accompany most selections.
Check out our pearl selection, and shoot me any questions on our contact form- I am happy to assist in your pearl journey!
