Virtues of a Pearl

Treasures of the Deep...

A diamond may be the essence of romance and longevity, but the pearl has long been a statement of timeless elegance and sophisticated luxury.  The exotic allure and mystery of this gem from the deep blue, has an enduring timelessness about it.  The pearl is a true reflection of nature’s amazing gift to produce such awe-inspiring beauty.

Types of Pearls

There are several types of pearls; the extremely rare natural pearls, cultured pearls and imitation pearls.  Cultured pearls are harvested saltwater and freshwater all around the world, the most precious of these being the South Sea Pearl.  South Sea pearls come from the silver-lipped variety of the Pinctada Maxima oyster.  The smoothness and lustre of these pearls is exceptional.  They are the most rare and extraordinary pearls you will find in jewellery and are generally much larger than other pearl types.  These factors make the South Sea pearls both distinctive and valuable.  Since the natural colours of these pearls are so rich and beautiful, they are merely washed and lightly buffed after harvesting to remove any residue and bring out their natural glow.

To identify and appreciate the allure of the South Sea pearl there are five main virtues to consider:

Colour

The natural colours of the South Sea pearls include the Tahitian black pearls; not really black they are dark grey with a beautiful “oil on water” lustrous surface.  Australian South Sea pearls, farmed in the tropical waters off the West Australian coast are white with a beautiful pink lustre, or an extremely rare natural gold colour.

Shape

Pearls grow in a variety of shapes.  This ranges from the classic round shape, to teardrop and button, to the freeform baroque and naturally spiralled circle pearl.  A pearl grown on the oyster’s shell is referred to as a Mabé or half pearl. 
The most alluring of all the pearl shapes is the Keshi (or seedless pearl).  Keshi pearls are a natural bi-product of the Pinctada oyster.  They grow as a result of a small grain of sand or piece of shell making its way into an oysters abdomen, thus being transformed into a lustrous pearl.  Due to the unusual shape of the irritant these pearls are usually freeform or baroque in profile; each one fantastically unique.

Lustre

The value of a pearl comes from the nacre’s ability to absorb, refract and reflect light.  This quality is known as “orient” – the deep, inner glow and shimmering iridescence of pearls.  The very best pearls have a bright metallic lustre; where as poor quality pearls show very little reflectivity.  Lustre will reflect vibrant pink and rainbow hues off the pearl’s surface and how well you can see your own reflection in a pearl indicates the quality of lustre.  Good lustre has the gift to minimise other imperfections and its intensity is strongest when seen against its wearer’s skin.

Complexion

The most beautiful and valuable pearls may still have slight imperfections.  These appear in the form of small pits or dimples.  The nacreous layers of a pearl must be thick to enhance the quality and durability of the pearl.

Size

South Sea pearls are world renowned for their immense proportions.  They are generally found in sizes between 10mm and 15mm. Rarely found, are pearls from 16mm to in excess of 20mm and are highly prized by connoisseurs.

When it comes to choosing a pearl, its lustre is the most important factor to keep in mind.  You must take care to treat them as the precious gems that they are. Caring for your Pearls

A timeless beauty, a pearl will always be a treasured heirloom to pass on through generations.  This charming gem of the sea will uplift the soul and is the only gem that is perfect as soon as it’s released from its hiding place.  No polishing or cutting – it simply and truly.....is.