Time To Understand Pearls And Their History
There are many different colours and types of pearls on the market today that even pearl connoisseurs get a little confused! Those that want to buy pearl earrings just don’t know where to start. For those interested in buying pearls, or for gem enthusiasts who wish to learn more, here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about pearls.
Tell Me About Tahitian Pearls – Are They All Black?
This might surprise some, but Tahitian pearls aren’t grown in Tahiti and they’re also not black. Although black is a popular choice for pearl fans, Tahitian pearls can also be bought in beautiful blues, browns, greens and greys. This type of pearl comes from a group of islands known as the French Polynesian range.
Cultured Vs Natural Pearl Earrings
If there is an oyster or mollusc on the seabed and something makes its way inside, like a parasite, then this is how natural pearls are formed. The oyster or mollusc tries to protect itself and to do this it coats the intruder in a substance which then creates the mother of pearl. It takes time for the nacre layers to build up, but when the newly-formed pearl is retrieved, it proves that it is worth the wait.
Cultured pearls are formed in the same way as natural pearls, with one big difference: they get their start not by chance, but deliberately, when man intervenes with nature. Man’s input is such that he will place something inside the oyster which speeds up the pearl-making process. The outcome is some beautiful pearls, which make their way into the shops so you can buy pearl earrings.
Saltwater Pearls Vs Freshwater Pearls
Although both are beautiful, many people feel that the cultured freshwater pearls are just as good as saltwater pearls, and they are of course more affordable too. Over the years, improved pearl culturing processes have meant that freshwater pearls are now being produced that are large, rounded and stunningly beautiful.
Freshwater cultured pearls come in many beautiful natural pastel colours including cream, white, yellow, orange, pink and lavender. Universally flattering lavender pearls are very popular right now. If you like white pearls, these are also popular. Bold black pearls are actually treated with dye to produce their colour, and yet these remain a very popular choice for jewellery buyers.
At the end of the day, it is freshwater pearls that appeal most, and the fact they are more affordable helps make them a number 1 choice. If you like this type of jewellery, why not treat yourself to some pearl earrings?
Tags: earrings, fashion, jewellery, jewelry, pearl earrings, pearls