5 Different Types of Pearls and How to Tell Them Apart

Pearls are a timeless classic that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you are looking for a piece of jewelry to wear every day or something to save for a special occasion, pearls are a perfect choice. With so many different types of pearls to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect one for you. Here are the famous types of pearls and how you can identify them easily.

What is a pearl?

Many people don't know what are pearls. Pearls are hard, round objects produced by certain species of mollusks. It is composed of calcium carbonate, and it is often considered to be a valuable gemstone. Pearls can vary in color, but they are most commonly white or off-white. The most valuable and rarest pearls are those that are perfectly round and have a very high luster.

Also Read: WHAT IS STERLING SILVER JEWELRY?

Types of Pearls

There are five main types of pearls: Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian, freshwater, and Mabe.

The most conventional and traditional variety of pearls is the Akoya pearl. They are grown in saltwater oysters in the coastal waters of Japan, China, and Vietnam. Akoya pearls range in size from 2mm to 10mm and are usually white or cream-colored with a rose or silver overtone.

South Sea pearls are the largest type of pearl, with sizes ranging from 9mm to 20mm. They are grown in saltwater oysters in the warm waters off the coasts of Australia, Indonesia, Myanmar, and the Philippines. South Sea pearls come in a variety of colors, including white, silver-white, cream, golden, and pink.

Tahitian pearls are grown in saltwater oysters in the French Polynesian islands of Tahiti and Moorea. Tahitian pearls range in size from 8mm to 15mm and come in a variety of colors, including black, green, blue, purple, and pink.

Freshwater pearls are grown in freshwater mussels in lakes, rivers, and ponds all over the world, including China, Japan, France, Scotland, and the United States. The shape of pearls in this category are varied and can be any color, including white, cream, pink, peach, lavender, purple, or black.

Mabe pearls are grown inside a small dome-shaped piece of mother-of-pearl that is implanted into the fleshy mantle tissue of a saltwater oyster. Mabe pearls are usually white with a pink or rose overt.

All these pearls are used for making a wide range of jewelry ranging from minimalist jewelry to more complex pieces of jewelry like gemstone beads jewelry. 

 

Also Read: 4 Reasons Why Handmade Jewelry Is Better Than Machine-Made Jewelry

How to Tell Them Apart?

Here is a quick guide to help you tell the different types of pearls apart:

Akoya pearls:

Small to medium in size, typically ranging from 6-8mmRound or near-round shapeHigh luster, smooth surfaceCommonly found in white or cream colors, but can also be found in pink or peach tones

 

South Sea pearls:

Larger in size than Akoya pearls, typically ranging from 9-20mmSoft, slightly irregular shapeLower luster than Akoya pearls but is still considered to have a high lusterIt can be found in a range of colors, including white, gold, and silver

 

Tahitian pearls:

Medium to large in size, typically ranging from 8-15mmSlightly oval shapeLower luster than Akoya pearls but is still considered to have a high lusterUnique colors ranging from dark grey to black

 

Freshwater pearls:

A wide range of shapes and sizes can be found as small as 2mm or as large as 15mmLower luster than saltwater pearlsOften have a more irregular shape

 

Mabe pearls:

Typically larger than other types of pearls, ranging from 10-20mm in diameterHemispherical shapeLow to medium lusterOften used in costume jewelry or as decorative elements in other types of jewelry

 

Conclusion

If you are looking for natural pearl jewelry made of authentic pearls, then it is essential to shop from a trusted jeweler. A reliable jeweler will be able to provide you with the highest quality pearl jewelry. Not only will their products be real, but they will also last much longer and be more valuable in the long term. Additionally, a trusted jeweler will be able to give you advice on taking care of the jewelry and answer any questions you have.

Stella Impex is a renowned jewelry shop that is well-known for its exquisite designs of semi-precious gemstone jewelry and 925 sterling silver jewelry. The jewelry pieces crafted by Stella Impex are truly remarkable, ranging from classics with Oval beads and traditional designs to more modern and contemporary pieces with Biwa Pearl Sticks that are sure to make an impression. Whether you're looking for a special piece of jewelry for yourself or a loved one, Stella Impex is the perfect place to find that perfect piece.

Disclaimer- The information provided in this content is just for educational purposes and is written by a professional writer. Consult us to know more about pearls.