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Guide to Pearls
Pearls
Pearls have been prized for their beauty since ancient times. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History says that they were one of the first gems known to people (see Reference 1). Pearls were found in tombs dating from ancient Egypt.
Where Do Pearls Come From?
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Natural pearls develop in mollusks such as oysters, clams and abalone without the help of man (see Reference 1). Responding to something entering the shell such as a parasite or sand, the mollusk creates a sac around it and begins adding layers of nacre. Shapes tend to be irregular in natural pearls because the shape of the pearl is determined by the shape of the foreign object from which it is protecting itself. Naturally occurring pearls are very rare and extremely expensive.
Insert an irritant into a mollusk artificially and it will develop what is called a cultured pearl. Control the shape of the irritant that is used and the shape of pearl can be controlled. Most pearls sold are cultured pearls.
Saltwater Pearls
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Akoya oysters produce the most abundant type of cultured pearl, round ones that range in size from two to 11 millimeters. Look to Japan and China to find the main producers.
Tahitian pearls are produced in Polynesia and Tahiti from black lipped oysters. Search for them in their beautiful hallmark colors of charcoal to peacock blue in varying shades.
The most prized cultured pearls are South Seas pearls. Out of all the cultured pearls, these are the largest, growing up to 20 millimeters according to the Pearl Perfection website (see Reference 2). These three types of pearls are the most common types of saltwater pearls.
Freshwater Pearls
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Freshwater mussels are the source for freshwater pearls. Look for them in a wide variety of shapes and colors. Freshwater pearls are not as uniform as saltwater pearls and do not have the same luster but they do have their advantages. Known for being harder and more durable than saltwater pearls, freshwater pearls are also less expensive.
Care of Pearls
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Care for your pearls by storing them away from other jewelry. They can be easily scratched or damaged. Avoid getting cosmetics on pearls to protect their luster. Wipe them with a soft cloth after every wearing to remove cosmetics, lotions or body oils that may have collected on them. Wash them occasionally with a mild soap and soft cloth (see Reference 3).
Pearls should be restrung by a professional jeweler as often as once a year. Knotting between each pearl helps prevent them from rubbing against each other.
eHow Article: Guide to Pearls
