The formation of this organic gem is definitely a nature's work of art. Once a parasite or a bit of sand invades the mollusk, it could potentially damage the soft internal surface of the shell. As a natural defense, the oyster, clam or mussel secretes nacre to protect itself from the irritant. Over years, layer upon layer of nacre coats the irritant, which then formed into a dazzling pearl.
The birthstone for June, natural or cultured pearl signifies money, good fortune, and power. It is also the suggested gem that is given on the 3rd and 30th wedding anniversaries.
One of the most highly priced pearls are the natural ones with nearly perfect symmetry and relatively large in size. Natural pearls are mainly sourced in the Arabian Gulf, but they can also be found in some other regions such as Venezuela, China, Australia, Africa and Japan.
Cultured pearls are produced with the human intervention. A skilled technician intentionally inserts a bead—a small piece of mantle tissue—inside the mollusk’s shell where the pearls are grown. Among the most common types of these pearls are Akoya, South Sea, Tahiti and Lake Biwa cultured pearls.
Pearls have become an obsession of many women throughout the ages perhaps due to its excellent luster. Highly valued pearls with impressive luster often have distinct, bright and sharp reflections. Apart from luster, all other quality factors in determining the value of a pearl jewelry include the size, shape, color, surface quality, nacre quality and matching—for jewelry with more than one pearl in jewelry.
Pearl jewelry has always been an important adornment and a great addition to your wardrobe. You can wear them on a regular basis or for special occasions and get them in a wide variety of colors and sizes of your choice.
Freshwater or salt water cultured pearls have remained popular for bead bracelets and necklaces or set into a fabulous pair of earrings, rings and pendants.
When it comes to durability, pearl is quite a soft gem that ranks a 2.5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. It has to be protected from extreme wear and harsh chemicals to retain its exquisite beauty.
At Diana Jewelers of Liverpool we offer pearl and bead restringing service and this can be done in all different styles. We will always clean your precious pearl necklaces or bracelets before restringing.