How to Choose the Perfect Pearl
South Sea Pearls are some of the most sought after pearls because of their large size and beautiful colors, ranging from bright white to a creamy golden hue. Natural pearls of high enough quality for use in fine jewelry form in just one oyster out of every million, making them some of the most expensive gems in the world. Although they can still be expensive, cultured are a cost-effective alternative to naturally formed pearls. In order to protect your investment, it is important to understand the differences between certain types of pearl jewelry.
They come in a variety of hues, including white, silver, charcoal, gold, pink, and blue. Certain types of oysters naturally produce a range of colored pearls. For example, Silver-lipped Oysters produce white & gold south sea pearls. They obtain their color through organic methods; as with all pearls, the specific hue of south sea pearls depends on things such as water temperature, the depth the oyster is placed, and minerals present in the water. To achieve the desired color, farmers must carefully monitor, clean, and adjust the growing conditions of their oysters.
Since it is difficult to find a large number of pearls of the same size and color, some manufacturers simply dye them in order to create matching jewelry. Oftentimes, artificially dyed are sold for the same price as a naturally colored although they are of a lower quality. Harsh bleaching and dyeing techniques diminish the pearl’s structural integrity and cause gradual color and luster loss. When shopping for cultured, it’s wise to buy those grown in the most organic way possible.
Its quality also depends on the way the piece is created. Some jewelry is created by drilling a small hole and stringing each pearl on a fine strand of silk. In time silk can loosen, rot, or even break. High quality jewelry uses other materials, such as silicon-coated surgical grade stainless steel wire, which won’t damage them but is strong enough to stand the test of time. Also, jewelry tends to last longer when they are separated by a tiny knot or small rubber ring; this prevents pearls from rubbing together and reduces wear and tear.
If you are looking for a piece of pearl jewelry that will truly stand the test of time, cultured white & gold South Sea Pearls are a great option. While high-quality cultured south sea pearls are by no means cheap, they’re a great alternative to exorbitant natural pearls. Since quality of cultured pearls can vary greatly, it is important to ask your jeweler about the way it is grown and colored as well as how the jewelry is constructed. Doing your research before you buy will ensure that you choose a beautiful piece of jewelry that will stand the test of time and make an exquisite heirloom for family.
