Types of Pearls

Pearls can be perfect gifts for many occasions, but you should be aware of the wide variety of pearls and how they are cultivated to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Types

Pearls fall into two main categories: those cultivated in freshwater, often found in lakes or rivers, and those cultivated in saltwater, the more common type found in oceans and seas.

Considerations

The relative value of a pearl is determined by its smoothness, luster, shape (more evenly round pearls are more valuable), color and size.

Process

Cultured pearls are produced by opening the shell of a mollusk slightly and placing a small bead onto its reproductive organ. Natural pearls are produced when sand or other particles enter the shell naturally.

History

Pearls were traditionally collected along the coast of India and Japan. In ancient Rome and Egypt, pearls were the ultimate symbol of wealth and power.

Identification

Freshwater pearls are more commonly irregularly shaped and typically silver, pink or copper in color, while saltwater pearls are rounder and come in a wide variety of colors.

References

• Kari Pearls: Types of Pearls
• Pearl-Guide.com: The World's Largest Pearl Information Source