With all the different pearl colours and types out there, it can be difficult to know just what you’re looking at when you want to buy pearl earrings. That’s why this guide is designed to answer some very popular pearl questions for those who wish to know more.
Are All Tahitian Pearls Black?
This might surprise some, but Tahitian pearls aren’t grown in Tahiti and they’re also not black. Tahitian pearls are also bought in colours other than black, such as blue, green and grey. And they’re grown in the lagoons of small islands that are part of a group known as French Polynesia.
Tell Me The Difference In Cultured And Natural Pearl Earrings.
Natural pearls are formed when an irritant, such as a parasite, makes its way into a pearl-producing animal such as an oyster or mollusc. To protect itself, the animal coats the irritant in nacre - a combination of organic substances that also makes up what we call mother of pearl. People are often surprised to learn that this process takes a very long time – sometimes years – and that’s why your natural pearl jewellery is so special.
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. It is someone skilled who will go in and place something in the oyster so make sure the pearl formation happens. Once this is completed, pearls will then get made into jewellery and people like you and I can buy pearl earrings.
Saltwater Pearls Vs Freshwater Pearls
It depends on who you ask, but many pearl experts today agree that freshwater cultured pearls can rival the beauty of their saltwater cousins. Not so long ago, cultured pearls didn’t have the same quality and lustre that they have today, but thanks to improved culturing techniques, these pearls are now stunning items to buy and treasure.
With so many colours to choose from, freshwater cultured pearls are now the best option for people who like to express themselves through colourful jewellery. One of the most popular pearl options at the moment is lavender. If you like white pearls, these are also popular. Stunning black pearls, which are treated with dye, are rising up the style stakes too, and many people like the fact they are a little out of the ordinary.
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?
