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Pearl Information
Originating from the rivers, lakes and ponds of China, Freshwater Pearls are the most extensively produced variety of pearl. They appear in huge array of shapes, sizes and colours, making them the ideal addition to one’s wardrobe without having to invest huge sums of money.
So what are the differences between saltwater and freshwater pearls?
Well it’s always good to start with the obvious! saltwater pearls are cultured pearls that have been farmed in saltwater pearl oysters throughout the world.
Freshwater pearls are those which form inside freshwater mussels in lakes, rivers and ponds.
This is predominantly in China, where Alex has lived for 18 years, but also emerging countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and Alex’s current home – the Philippines!
Now here is a stat for you that will help to explain the second major difference. The annual pearl harvest for freshwater pearls, stands at around 1,000 tonnes, yes, you read that correctly, TONNES – and that is from China alone. In comparison, saltwater varieties, such as Akoya pearls, harvest approximately one quarter of that, which is reflected in their price. Such pearls also have a unique metallic lustre, perfect surface and roundness.
Some common questions explained by Alex in simple terms …..
How are they made?
Freshwater pearl mussels can contain a huge amount of pearls, up to about 25 on each side of the mussel. This means that a single mussel can harvest a whopping 50 pearls. Donor tissue, approximately lmm, is implanted into the soft tissue of the mussel. This triggers the mussel into secreting what is called nacre around a small sack which is created upon transplant. Over a number of years these layers form calcium carbonate deposits form the magic seen by you!
What is a cultured pearl?
It does sometimes bring a smile when I hear the sentence “Well of course I have my cultured pearls” In actual fact, somewhere around 95% of all pearls have been ‘cultured’. Cultured, simply means that there has been ‘human interference’ in the growing process. Cultured pearls can be saltwater pearls, or freshwater pearls. The actual ‘material’, so to speak, is exactly the same. A freshwater pearl is no less ‘pearl than its saltwater sister!
What is a Baroque pearl?
This is another question that I hear on a constant basis, and am always delighted to answer. Baroque comes from the Portuguese word ‘Barocco’ which means ‘imperfect’.
Baroque pearls are currently in the height of fashion, being that they can be found in all shapes and sizes! They also have far more of a rugged, natural look.