All about Pearls!
Pearls have long been a staple item within the jewellery market and have become a desirable classic item, whether pearl earrings or a necklace. As fashion trends influence the accessory market, pearls have become increasingly popular in recent times and can be dyed to achieve desired colours, such as gold.
Semi-precious stone and metals are mined from the earth, pearls are grown by live oysters and have an iridescence on their surface. It can take 5 years for a 3mm pearl to form. It is extremely rare to have a perfectly round pearl, most real pearls will be irregularly shaped.
There are two types of real pearls to look for, Cultured and Freshwater Pearls. Both types are produced the same way except for the type of water used, cultured use ocean saltwater and freshwater are harvested in freshwater.
As the market is inundated with fake pearls, a simple test can be used to discover the real from the fake. This test has become known as the tooth test! A fake pearl will feel smooth when slowly rubbed across front teeth, whereas a real pearl will feel slightly gritty. This is due to the crystalline structure of a real pearl.
Lariat with gold freshwater pearls. www.clutchandclasp.co.uk
White Freshwater Pearl earrings. www.clutchandclasp.co.uk
