PEARLS

Pearls are probably the oldest gemstone to be admired and collected by humankind. In fact, references to pearls appear in the ancient writings and mythology of the Persians, Romans, Chinese, Hindus and people of the South Seas. They have long been associated with royalty, splendor, purity and beauty.Pearls are available in many types, shapes and colors. There are pearls to suit most every customer’s taste and budget. Here are a few of the considerations:

Pearl Types

Fine, natural pearls are rare and very costly. Most pearls sold today are cultured. They may be cultivated in saltwater (such as Akoya pearls, South Sea pearls, and Tahitian pearls) or freshwater (Biwa pearls, Chinese pearls and American pearls).

Shape

There are four basic pearl shapes used for necklaces in various lengths—round, off-round, semi-baroque and baroque. Other shapes such as teardrops, buttons and ovals are used more often for earrings, pendants and brooches.

Color

Pearls come in a wide range white shades, cream, pink, silver, golden, mauve. peach, lavender, champagne, gray and black. It is currently fashionable to mix colors in pearl strands. The choice of color is very personal and is usually determined according to skin tones.

Luster

Surface brilliance is determined by the layers of "nacre"—the thicker the nacre, the deeper the luster. Desirable luster can range from a silky, shiny sheen on white Akoya pearls to a mirror bright sheen on black Tahitian pearls or a soft, satin surface on golden South Sea pearls. Small surface imperfections are part of pearls’ natural beauty.

Surface

Small surface imperfections are part of the natural beauty of pearls. These might include dimples, rings, orange peel and nodules. Of course, the fewer and less noticeable the imperfections the more valuable the pearl.Come by, call or contact us for more information about pearls and other services.