Pearls have seen a revival in popularity in recent years, and with the many different types of pearls available meaning that they can be worn with any outfit, it’s easy to see why. But if you’re going to invest in a set of pearls, you need to make sure you’re choosing wisely. And where’s the best place to turn for such advice? Your local independent jeweller of course!
Where do pearls come from?
Pearls are hard objects which are produced within the shell of a living mollusc. A pearl is formed from calcium carbonate, just like the mollusc’s shell, which has been deposited in concentric layers.
The most valuable pearls occur naturally in the wild, but these are extremely rare. Similarly, perfectly spherical pearls are also particularly valuable. Therefore, cultured or farmed pearls from pearl oysters usually make up the majority of those which will be sold in your local jewellery shop. As the names suggest, freshwater and saltwater pearls come from different sources from around the world – your local jeweller will explain the differences in pearls coming from each of the sources.
What shapes of pearl are available?
As already mentioned, the most valuable type of pearl is that which is perfectly spherical. However, these are very rare. The term ‘off-round’ is therefore used to describe pearls which appear to be quite round to the eye but have a slightly oval or flattened shape. These can still be used to create beautiful jewellery, and your local independent jeweller will be able to advise on how to use these pearls, with the usual uses being either a necklace or earrings.
Your local jeweller may also stock pearls which are oval in shape (or rice pearls, as they’re also known), used to create very delicate looking jewellery, baroque pearls (often the valuable natural pearls which are off-round or irregular shaped, perhaps with a ‘tail’ on one side), or even jewellery made from Keishi Pearls, which are accidents of nature created when the mollusc rejects the nucleus of the pearl and grows a free-form shape, resulting in very unusual and interesting jewellery.
What colours do pearls come in?
One of the great things about pearls is the fact that they come in a variety of colours. As well as the well known white or ivory coloured pearls, ask your local independent jeweller about the other colours available. Natural freshwater pearls only occur in three colours: pink, white and lavender, but can be dyed to give them a darker shade. Saltwater pearls come in varying shades from silver, gray, yellow, golden and even a dark grey verging on black, depending on where they come from.
I have an old set of pearls. Will my local jeweller be able to restring them?
Yes, if you have an old set of pearls, take them along to your local jewellery shop where your local jeweller will be able to advise on restringing them and often be able to do the job for you on site. This is a great way of reviving an heirloom or vintage piece of jewellery. As pearls are so fashionable at the moment, it’s well worth investing in getting such beautiful items looking their best!