Pearls are gemstones with stunning beauty. They are not as expensive as diamonds, but pearls have a special charm. Their classic beauty makes them the favourite of women of all ages. You should know more about pearls and pearl jewellery before buying.
Types of pearls
Pearls are of different types. They can be:
- Cultured or natural or imitation
Natural pearls are naturally occurring pearls without the intervention of human beings. Cultured pearls are formed when an irritant is introduced into a mature mollusc. Natural pearls and cultured pearls look the same from the exterior. Differences can be spotted only when they are x-rayed. Cultured pearls are cheaper than natural pearls. Natural pearls are expensive because of their rarity. Imitation pearls are made from coral or conch or glass. They lack the lustre and beauty of natural and cultured pearls. They are the least expensive.
- Freshwater or saltwater pearls
Cultured pearls can be either freshwater or saltwater pearls. Saltwater pearls are formed in sea water whereas freshwater pearls are formed in freshwater in rivers and lakes. Saltwater pearls are more expensive than freshwater pearls. The most popular saltwater pearls are the Japanese Akoya pearls and the sophisticated black Tahitian pearls.
Pearls are always related to white colour, but they come in a variety of colours like gold, blue, pink, gold, green and black. They are also of different shapes like round, oval, baroque, semi round and pear etc.
Jewellery may be made from a wide range of materials. Gemstones and similar materials such as amber and coral, precious metals, beads, and shells have been widely used, and enamel has often been important. In most cultures jewellery can be understood as a status symbol, for its material properties, its patterns, or for meaningful symbols. Jewellery has been made to adorn nearly every body part, from hairpins to toe rings, and even genital jewellery. The patterns of wearing jewellery between the sexes, and by children and older people can vary greatly between cultures, but adult women have been the most consistent wearers of jewellery; in modern European culture the amount worn by adult males is relatively low compared with other cultures and other periods in European culture.
Pearls are used to make a variety of jewellery like pearl ring, pearl necklace, pearl bracelet, pearl earring, pearl bangle and pearl watch etc.
Pearls are delicate and they need special care. They should not be exposed to chemicals in soaps and other cosmetics. You should wipe them with a soft muslin cloth to avoid scratching the surface.
Pearls are simple but elegant. They are the best choices for any type of jewellery. Choose and store with great care.
