About Pearls

Pearls are organic gem from a natural living thing, a result of the buildup of layers of nacre. There are two main categories: freshwater cultured pearls and saltwater cultured pearls. The different cultivation techniques, oysters, and environment result in various types of pearls. Freshwater cultured pearls are grown in lakes and rivers, while saltwater cultured pearls are grown in bodies of saltwater.

Pearls have always held a special allure and quality that both define natural beauty and regal elegance. There are more varieties and availability of pearls today than ever before, in every color, shape, design, and price range. The "cultured pearls" now rival with fine diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies, with their lasting beauty. Cultured pearls are divided into Akoya Pearls, South Sea Pearls, and Black Pearls.

There are several factors that determine the quality and value of the pearl: luster & orient, nacre thickness and quality, surface texture, color, shape, size and matching. A combination of these characteristics decides the overall quality and value of pearls.

While Japan, Australia, China, the Cook Islands, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Tahiti are known for the produce of cultured pearls, India, Mexico, Thailand, Venezuela, Vietnam and Hawaii are know for the natural pearls.