Different Types of Pearls Used To Make Jewellery

Posted on: 28 April 2016

One of the most coveted gems for any jewellery box is pearls. These gems are classic and have been incorporated into jewellery for time immemorial. As such, they make a great addition to any personal jewellery collection as they create timeless jewellery pieces that will never go out of style. However, a common misconception that people make is that all pearls are the same. The truth of the matter though is that pearls will vary, and this will also affect their value. Here are some of the different types of pearls used to make jewellery.

Tahitian pearls

Tahitian pearls are named after the island on which they are farmed. Most of them have are a vivid metallic black colour. Tahitian pearls also have a variety of shapes and tend to be the largest pearls, making them unique pearl pendants. Apart from the usual circular shape, you can also find them in baroque shapes and even semi round.

Akoya pearls

Akoya pearls are farmed in Japan. They are the classic glistening white pearls. Among all the cultured pearls, the Akoya pearls have the most lustre and shine. Akoya pearls are typically small and their size makes them suitable in the making of different kinds of pearl jewellery. Akoya pearls are highly prized because of the consistency of their shape. They almost always are a perfect circle, making them highly sought after for making necklaces, rings, bracelets or pearl necklaces.

Freshwater pearls

Freshwater pearls come from mussels that live in lakes or rivers. You can also find them in ponds. Although freshwater pearls lack the same vibrant shine and lustre of saltwater pearls, they are still popular. This is especially true with the younger generation and designers. The reasons for this is that they are less expensive and come in a variety of shapes, not just the classic round pearl. This makes them suitable for making pearl pendants that are pocket friendly and unique in design.

A common misconception people have is that pearls can easily be found and used in jewellery making. It should be noted that naturally occurring pearls are quite rare. As such, the pearls that are used in jewellery designs almost always have been cultured by pearl farmers. Unless the jeweller expressly indicates that the pearls they have used are all natural, then you should assume that the pearls you are purchasing have been cultured.

Contact a jeweller for more information.

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Hello, my name is Bobby and this is my business blog. I am by no means a professional businessman, but I do like to take ideas and try to develop them. Even though I have taught myself everything I know, I have had a little success. I got interested in developing different forms of business when I visited my Uncle who runs a large company which buys and sells and provides many different services. He was a real inspiration. He encouraged me to start a power washing business, then I started cleaning cars for a living and now I am thinking about getting into the technology sector. I hope you enjoy my blog.