Before delving into the world of pearls, it's important to understand where these precious stones come from. You've probably wondered how they're created, and the truth is, their origins are truly curious.
Pearls emerge as a response mechanism when a foreign body is introduced into the soft interior of mollusks. A substance like nacre is expelled, and layers upon layers form until a pearl is created.
Pearls: How many types are there and where does their high value come from?
Today at LAVANI you'll discover everything about the world surrounding pearls.
Keep reading and discover all their names, shapes and colors!
1. Classification and types of pearls
According to its origin
Depending on the process used to obtain the pearl, they may or may not be natural. Thus, if the pearls have been extracted naturally, meaning the mollusk has not been altered to obtain them, they will be natural pearls. However, if a human factor has intervened in the process, influencing their production by introducing an element into the interior of the mollusk, they will be cultured pearls.
According to their origin
Pearls can grow in both saltwater and freshwater, thus different locations where they are produced. Saltwater pearls are formed in oysters or mussels in the oceans and are usually larger. They usually grow in the South Sea, Tahiti, and Akoya.
Salt water.
South Sea pearls are found in Australia, the Philippines, and Indonesia and are among the most prized for their characteristic luster. Their color ranges from black to white, and they typically take an average of four years to cultivate.
Tahitian pearls are produced in the waters of French Polynesia and are known for their variety of exotic colors, ranging from gray, orange, green, blue, and black. Due to their brilliance and color, this is one of the most unique varieties in the world.
Akoya pearls are cultivated primarily in Japan, but also in parts of China and Vietnam. Their name comes from the variety of oysters in which they are cultivated, called Akoya. They are known for their symmetry and round shape, making them very elegant pieces.
Fresh water.
Freshwater pearls are those that grow in rivers and lakes, primarily in China. With a shorter cultivation period than other pearls, they are produced in much larger quantities than saltwater pearls, making them more affordable. Furthermore, this variety allows for a wider range of shapes, from smooth to baroque.
According to its shape
As we've mentioned, freshwater pearls are characterized by their wide variety of shapes. Pearls can range from perfectly symmetrical, with a well-defined round shape, to teardrop-shaped pearls. Among this range of shapes, we find highly valued round pearls; semi-round pearls; baroque pearls, which are much more irregular; teardrop-shaped pearls; and button-shaped pearls.
According to its color
The color tone of these gemstones depends on their origin and the atmospheric conditions in which they were grown. Therefore, they can be white, gray, yellow, blue, pink, green, and black.
According to its size
Pearl size is what differentiates them and allows us to identify their variety, although it's important to know that it doesn't necessarily indicate higher or lower quality. They can range from 1 mm to 15 mm. Thus, their growth rate during the cultivation period depends on factors such as the type and age of the mollusk; the conditions in which they were grown, such as water or temperature; and, finally, the length of time they were allowed to grow.
2. Value of pearls
All of these characteristics we've seen are what determine whether or not their value increases. Thus, pearls with more layers of nacre will be more lustrous; that is, when we can see our reflection in the pearl, it's an indicator of high luster, and greater luster indicates greater value.
Another aspect that will determine whether a pearl is valuable or not is its symmetrical shape and the purity of its surface. Therefore, the rounder and smoother the piece, the more valuable it will be.
We must not forget the size of the pearl either, since the largest ones are the most difficult to obtain, and they will be the most coveted and expensive.
Finally, the amount of mother-of-pearl present in the piece will determine its high value, since the more layers of mother-of-pearl the pearl has, the greater its shine and beauty.
3. Jewelry with pearls
This type of stone, used in many necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and headbands, can give your outfit that elegant touch you're looking for. Whatever the event, you definitely can't go wrong with pearl jewelry .
If you're looking for simple, small earrings, the uniquely designed Sadie Pearl earrings are perfect for you. Plus, you can combine them and complete your look with one of our favorite pieces, the High Priestess Pearl Choker .
But if you are looking for something more different that will make you dazzle, do not hesitate and dare to try long pearl earrings , such as The Justice Earrings or the Adoration Pearl Earrings .
But if you want to incorporate pearls into your hairstyle, you'll be a hit with the Olivenza Pearl Headband .
Tell us, did you know all these types of pearls? If you'd like to learn more about baroque pearls, check out our blog post "Baroque Pearls: Where Do Pearls Come From?"