Description
Pearls, amber and coral are not precious stones, they are substances produced by plants and animals. However they are regarded as gems because they are so attractive and rare and can be worn as jewellery. The most highly prized and the most expensive of this group are the fabulous and amazing pearls, they have one very unique quality, which is, they can be worn by anyone, at any time, in any situation!
Factors affecting the price of pearls.
Pearl type, Lustre, thickness of nacre, colour, shape, size, surface quality, treatment status. The most expensive type of pearl is the natural pearl, these were the only type available until about 1900, when Miki Moto started to produce cultured pearls. Cultured pearls are from farmed oysters, whereas natural pearls come from “wild” oysters. Also we have sea water pearls from the oceans and fresh water pearls from the rivers and streams. Seed pearls were very small pearls used extensively in Victorian jewellery. Artificial pearls are made from many materials often coloured glass.
Care of your Pearls.
Pearls are delicate and can easily be damaged, pearl is just 2.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. They should be wrapped in cloth or tissue so as not to be scratched by other hard objects or jewellery.
Also pearls are not resistant to sprays and perfumes.
