Dive into the world of pearls and discover the mysteries of the sea. Historically a symbol of power and wealth, pearls have captivated us for millennia. From the depths of the ocean to the height of luxury, their understated elegance and sophistication make them one of nature’s most enigmatic beauties.
Key Takeaways
- Whether they are natural or cultivated, freshwater or saltwater, each type of pearl has its unique characteristics and origins.
- While there is no universal grading system for pearls, some important factors to consider are their colour, size, shape and lustre. These aspects significantly influence their beauty and value.
- Be cautious of imitation pearls, which mimic the appearance of real pearls but lack their quality and durability. Learning how to distinguish between them can save you from making a costly mistake.
Types of Pearls
Natural and Cultured Pearls
Natural pearls form without any human intervention. They occur when an irritant, such as a grain of sand, enters an oyster or mollusc and prompts it to secrete layers of nacre. Nacre is strong, resilient and iridescent, creating what we know as a pearl over time.
Since they are formed without human intervention, natural pearls are incredibly rare, extremely valuable and highly sought after.
In contrast, cultured pearls are created with human assistance The process, invented by Kokichi Mikimoto, involves inserting a small bead or piece of tissue into a mollusc to stimulate pearl production. Due to their controlled growth conditions, cultured pearls can be more well-shaped or rounder in appearance than natural ones.
Although they are more common than natural pearls, high-quality cultured pearls can rival the beauty of their natural counterparts.
Saltwater and Freshwater Pearls
Both natural and cultured pearls can be found in either saltwater or freshwater environments. Saltwater pearls are found in oceans, and are highly valued for their lustre, size and symmetry.
Notable examples of saltwater pearls include Akoya pearls and Tahitian pearls. Akoya pearls are renowned for their perfectly round shapes and brilliant sheen, and are regarded as the classic pearl for jewellery. Tahitian pearls are celebrated for their naturally dark, exotic colours, which range from deep black to vibrant peacock shades.
Another popular variety of saltwater pearls is the Mabe pearl, which grows against the inner shell of a mollusc rather than within its body. This formation results in a distinctive flat-backed, domed shape that makes them especially ideal for earrings, pendants and rings. Poh Heng’s Mabe pearl collection captures the pearl’s radiance and unique shape in an exquisite brooch, complemented with gold and silver detailing to highlight the pearl’s natural glow.
Meanwhile, freshwater pearls are found in rivers or lakes and are known for their diverse shapes, colours and affordability. Unlike their saltwater counterparts, freshwater pearls often feature softer lustre and more irregular forms, which make them more popular in contemporary and creative jewellery designs.
Some pearls occur in both saltwater and freshwater environments, such as Keshi pearls. Formed when the mollusc rejects the implanted nucleus during the cultivation process, Keshi pearls are small pearls loved for their organic, irregular shapes.
Pearl Characteristics
Colour
Ranging from classic white and cream to a diverse palette of pink, blue, black and more, pearls come in all sorts of desirable colours. Their colour is influenced by the mollusc species, the environment, and the thickness of the nacre. Some pearls also exhibit secondary hues, for instance, a white pearl may have pink or green overtones that add to its complexity and beauty.
Shape
Pearl shapes vary widely, including round, oval, teardrop, and baroque—the latter being irregularly shaped pearls. While traditional jewellery often favours perfectly round pearls for their symmetry, contemporary designs celebrate the uniqueness of baroque pearls. Their distinct shapes allow for creative jewellery settings, making them highly sought after in modern fashion.
Blister pearls, for instance, have irregular shapes that form when a pearl develops attached to the inner surface of a mollusc’s shell rather than floating freely. Often appearing in a half-dome shape with a flat back, such pearls are typically used in artistic jewellery or ornamental designs.
Likewise, baroque pearls have irregular, non-spherical shapes that make them a favourite in bold and creative jewellery design. Ranging from slightly oval to dramatically abstract, such pearls are cherished for their uniqueness.
Size
The size of a pearl is determined by the size of the nucleus (in cultured pearls) and the length of time it spends in the mollusc. Measured in millimetres, small pearls are delicate and elegant, whereas larger pearls make a bold statement. As larger pearls are generally rarer, they tend to be more valuable.
Surface
The surface quality of a pearl refers to the presence of blemishes or imperfections. A pearl with fewer surface flaws is more valuable. While minor blemishes are common and can add character, pearls with a smooth, clean surface are highly prized.
Lustre
Lustre is the quality of light reflection on the surface of a pearl, created by a thick layer of nacre. High-lustre pearls have sharp, bright reflections that give them a radiant, attractive appearance and are more durable due to the nacre formed.
Grading Standards
Pearl grading considers several criteria: size, shape, colour, lustre, surface quality, and nacre thickness. There is no universal grading system for pearls, but most jewellers use the AAA-A system or a similar scale to classify the quality of a pearl. A well-graded pearl will exhibit excellent lustre, minimal surface imperfections, a desirable shape, and appropriate size.
Pearl Jewellery
Jewellery for Every Occasion
Used in jewellery for centuries, the timeless appeal of pearls makes them a favourite for all styles and occasions.
Pearl earrings, for instance, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit. Whether you prefer studs or drops, a set of pearl earrings will be perfect for formal and casual wear alike.
Pearl bracelets are another way to introduce some flair into an outfit. Versatile and complementing any look, a classic pearl bracelet is a simple way to dress up your look and take you from casual brunches to black-tie events.
At Poh Heng Jewellery, we offer a wide range of irresistible pearl jewellery for every moment, including earrings and bracelets. Visit our boutiques or online store to discover our selection.
Imitation Pearls
Identifying Fakes
While natural and cultured pearls are highly valued, imitation pearls are also widely available. There are several ways to identify real pearls from imitations, including weight and surface feel. Real pearls are usually heavier than imitations due to their dense nacre layers. Real pearls also have a slightly gritty texture when rubbed against a tooth, whereas imitation pearls feel smooth.
Imitation Pearls
Identifying Fakes
While natural and cultured pearls are highly valued, imitation pearls are also widely available. There are several ways to identify real pearls from imitations, including weight and surface feel. Real pearls are usually heavier than imitations due to their dense nacre layers. Real pearls also have a slightly gritty texture when rubbed against a tooth, whereas imitation pearls feel smooth.
Real & Imitation Pearls
While imitation pearls can be affordable, natural and cultured pearls have a distinctive lustre and texture that cannot be perfectly replicated. If you are looking for a timeless piece of jewellery that can be cherished for generations, it is crucial to ensure that you have an authentic pearl.
Summary
Enigmatic and undeniably alluring, pearls hold a special place in our hearts. Whether you prefer natural or cultured pearls, saltwater or freshwater ones, their beauty and allure are unparalleled. If you would like to dive deeper into the world of pearls, our Poh Heng stores offer a wide selection of high-quality pearl jewellery. Simply visit our boutiques located islandwide, and our staff will gladly assist you in finding the piece to cherish for a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of pearls?
Pearls are primarily categorised into two major categories: freshwater and saltwater. Each type has unique characteristics and origins, catering to different tastes and budgets.
How are cultured pearls created?
Cultured pearls are formed when a tiny bead or piece of tissue is manually inserted into an oyster or mussel. The mollusc then secretes layers of nacre around the irritant, creating a pearl over time.
What should I look for when choosing pearl jewellery?
When selecting pearl jewellery, consider the pearl's colour, shape, size, surface quality and lustre. High lustre and smooth surfaces are indicators of good quality. For more information, feel free to visit our Poh Heng boutiques where our expert staff will be able to provide you with personalised assistance and find the right pearl for you.
How can I differentiate between real and imitation pearls?
Try the tooth method. Gently rub the pearl against your tooth, if it feels slightly gritty or sandy, it is likely real. Imitation pearls often feel smooth due to their glass or plastic composition.