Pearls

 
Pearls have been adored throughout history. In fact, pearls were the favored gems of the wealthy during the Roman Empire.

Natural pearls form when a foreign body, such as a grain of sand or a small parasite, enters into an oyster. The oyster protects itself by surrounding the intruder with various layers of protein and crystals. It is the final layer, nacre, and an iridescent layer of fine-grained crystals that gives the pearl its beauty. Natural pearls are very rare. Humans have found a way to create pearls by introducing a small mother-of-pearl bead into the oyster. These pearls are called cultured pearls. Cultured pearls have the same nice luster and the ability to reflect light as natural pearl. Cultured pearls vary in color from white, with a hint of color (often pink), to brown or black, depending on the type of mollusk and the water. Freshwater pearls are mainly grown in the Shanghai Lake district of China. The Chinese has used the production of cultured pearls for hundreds of years.

The Care of Pearls

Pearls are organic and therefore subject to deterioration. Overexposing them to soap, detergent, hair spray, perfume and other harsh chemicals can cause them to lose their luster.

However, pearls should be worn often, as the absorption of skin oils adds to their luster and life.

To clean pearls, use warm water and a soft cloth.