subject: Pearl Types & Other Facts about Pearls [print this page] Pearl Types & Other Facts about Pearls Pearl Types & Other Facts about Pearls
Although the main reservoir of pearls has been saltwater mollusks, freshwater mussels which reside in ponds, lakes and rivers are also popular pearl sources. Labeled as a June birth stone they are worn exclusively by women and, it requires no polishing or cutting.
Here are some interesting facts about pearls
It is formed when a foreign object is introduced into the shell of a mollusk. In cultured pearls this done by human intervention unlike natural formation which is triggered by a sand particle or any other "irritant".
The mollusk secretes an organic substance called nacre which forms a layer of protective material over the foreign particle. The resultant formation of lucent ball is known as pearl.
Different types of pearls
Japanese Akoya Pearls are often used to describe cultured ones. But today, they are grown in China, South Korea, Vietnam and Australia. The cooler waters off the coasts of these countries are largely responsible for the top quality luster that these orphic gems radiate. Their average size ranges from 6mm to 7mm and are nearly round in shape. They are predominantly available in white and cream colors.
Freshwater pearls are cultured in mussels, named Hyriopsis Cumingi. They are produced mainly in China, Japan and some North American countries. Their size ranges from 4mm to 11 mm. Almost 38% can be asymmetrical, popularly called Baroque or tear drop. Most of these irregular orphic gems are small in size and used to make necklaces. The rounded ones are used in the making of other jewellery.
A pearl cultured in French Polynesia is the true Tahitian type. They are nurtured in black lipped oyster, scientifically called Pinctada Margaritifera Cumingi. Their size ranges from 8 mm to 14 mm with varying shapes. Almost 40% of them are perfectly round in shape. Black, Grey, Green, Blue are some of the popular colours available.
South Sea Pearls are cultivated in either silver-lipped oyster or gold-lipped oyster. The scientific name for the mussel in which it is reared is called Pinctada Maxima and is found on the coasts of Australia, Indonesia, and Philippines. Their average size is around 13 mm with 60% being oval in shape. Available in white, cream and silver colours they can also have several undertones like rose and golden. Formed out of solid nacre, they exhibit excellent lustre.
All the above types can have varying degrees of blemishes on them but some can be absolutely clean. While buying pearls it always advisable to make a fresh X-ray in order to be sure of the quality.
