10 facts about pearls

In the deep, mysterious waters of the oceans and seas all over the world, a wonderfully natural process takes place: the birth of pearls. These precious organic gems have fascinated and seduced humanity for centuries with their beauty and symbolism.

Read 10 facts about the beautiful pearls in this blog.

1. Pearl formation is a natural process

It all starts with a simple oyster or mussel. When a strange object, such as a grain of sand or a small parasite, finds its way to the shell of one of these molluscs, the oyster responds in a unique way. To protect itself against the intruder, the oyster begins to separate layers of mother -of -pearl to cover the annoying object. These layers of mother -of -pearl ultimately form a beautiful pearl.

2. Rarity of pearls

The rarity of pearls is one of the main reasons why these gems have been so coveted and expensive through history. The rarity is due to various factors, such as the aforementioned natural education. In addition, natural pearls are usually collected from wild oyster beds on the seabed. Finding these oyster beds and diving into the depths in which they are can be a dangerous undertaking. This makes winning natural pearls into a time -consuming and risky activity.

The quality and size of a pearl also determine the rarity. If an oyster or mussel produces a gem, its quality and size are very variable. Most natural pearls are small and irregular in shape. Pearls of exceptional quality, such as large, perfect round specimens are extremely rare.

While most pearls that have been grown on the market are nowadays, natural pearls remain a symbol of purity, luxury and the miracles of nature. They are often considered real treasures and are sought after by collectors and lovers of jewelry around the world.

3. Symbolism of the Pearl

Pearls are not only appreciated for their external beauty, but also for their in -depth symbolism. They are often associated with purity, love and wisdom. It is common to see pearls wearing for brides as a sign of innocence and purity during weddings.

4. Pearls were used as a means of payment

In parts of Asia, such as India and the Middle East, pearls have long been considered valuable and were used for trade and payment. Pearls were sometimes used to strengthen the dowry of a bride or as a means of exchange for goods and services.

5. Different types of pearls

Natural and cultivated pearls occur in different shapes and varieties, each with their own unique properties and origin. Here are some of the most famous types of pearls:

Akoya pearls: These pearls are grown in Japan and some other coastal areas in the world, such as China and Vietnam. Akoya pearls are known for their beautiful shine and classic white to light pink color. They are usually round and are often used in high -quality jewelry.
Tahitian pearls: These pearls are grown in French-Polynesia, especially in Tahiti. They are famous for their dark, exotic colors, ranging from black and dark gray to green, blue and purple. Tahitian pearls are usually larger than Akoya pearls and have a unique look.
South Sea pearls: South Sea pearls are found in the waters around Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines. They are known for their enormous dimensions, ranging from 8 mm to 20 mm. The colors of South Sea pearls vary from white to gold and silver, and they have an impressive shine.
Freshwater pearls: Freshwater pearls are grown in freshwater lakes and rivers, mainly in countries such as China and the United States. They are usually smaller than saltwater pearls, but they occur in various shapes and colors, including white, pink, lilac and more. Freshwater pearls are generally more affordable than saltwater pearls.
Australian pearls: These pearls are grown on the northwest coast of Australia. They are known for their incredible beauty and are often associated with white and golden colors. The most famous Australian pearls come from the Pinctada Maxima-Oester.
Keshi pearls: Keshi pearls are small, irregularly shaped pearls that sometimes arise as a by-product in growing other pearls, especially in Tahitian and South Sea pearls. They are appreciated for their unique, organic appearance.
Pearls: Mabe pearls, also known as half pearls, are grown on the inside of the oyster shell instead of in the soft tissue of the oyster. Because of this they have a flat side and are often used in earrings and rings.

Each type of pearl has its own characteristics and attraction. The choice for a certain type of pearl depends on personal preference, budget and the intended jewelry design.

6. Pearl colors

Natural and cultivated pearls occur in a wide range of colors, each with its own unique look. The color of a pearl is influenced by various factors, including the type of oyster or mussel, the environmental conditions and any pigments in the water. Here are some of the most common pearl colors:

White pearls: White pearls are classic and timeless. They vary from pure white to cream and often have a soft shine. White pearls are often associated with purity and elegance. They can be found in Akoya pearls, South Sea pearls and freshwater pearls.
Pink pearls: Pink pearls have a delicate, romantic appearance. They vary in shade from light pink to deep pink. Pink pearls can be found in different pearl species, including Akoya pearls and freshwater pearls.
Lavender and lilac pearls: These pearls have a soft purple shade that varies from light lavender to deep lilac. They can often be found in freshwater pearls and are appreciated for their unique color.
Black pearls: Black pearls, such as Tahitian pearls, are world famous for their dark, exotic colors. They vary from deep black to dark green, blue, purple and brown. The diversity of colors in Tahitian pearls makes them highly sought after.

Golden pearls: Gold pearls range from light yellow to deep gold. They are often associated with luxury and wealth. Golden Pearls can be found in the South Sea pearls and some Akoya pearls.
Silver pearls: Silver pearls have a cool, silvery shine. They are often associated with modernity and elegance. Silver pearls are found in the South Sea pearls and some Akoya pearls.
Blue pearls: Although blue pearls are rare, they can be found in some South Sea pearls. They vary from light blue to deep blue and have a serene look.
Green pearls: Green pearls can be found in some Tahitian pearls and vary from light green to olive green. They have a natural and earthly look.

It is important to note that the color of a pearl is not only determined by the outer layer, but also by the reflections and refractions of light inside the pearl. This ensures the characteristic shine and iridescent quality of pearls.

7. The largest pearl in the world

The largest pearl in the world is known as the "Pearl of Lao Tzu" or the "Pearl of Allah". This pearl is extremely large and heavy and has a rich history and a legendary status. The pearl weighs 6.4 kilos (!) And has a diameter of 24 centimeters.

8. Cultivation of pearls

Growing pearls, also known as pearl or culture pearls, is a fascinating process in which human intervention is used to produce pearls in oysters or mussels. Growing pearls has transformed the global pearl industry and has considerably increased the availability of pearls. It enables jewelry lovers to wear affordable and various pearls, while it has also contributed to the protection of wild oyster populations. Although natural pearls are still highly appreciated for their rarity, cultivated pearls have played an important role in popularizing pearls as an accessible and beautiful form of jewelry.

9. Pearl care

Pearl care is important to maintain the beauty and durability of pearls, because pearls are an organic material and can be sensitive to damage. Here are some important tips for the care of pearls

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