What is Pearl?
Pearls are formed inside the shells of certain mollusks such as oysters and mussels. They are the only gemstones that are produced by living organisms. When an irritant such as a grain of sand enters the mollusk’s shell, the mollusk secretes a substance called nacre around the irritant to protect itself. The layers of nacre eventually form a pearl.
Types of Pearls
There are different types of pearls available in the market. Some of them are:
Freshwater Pearls:
These pearls are produced by freshwater mussels. They come in different shapes and sizes and are generally less expensive than other types of pearls.
Akoya Pearls:
These pearls are produced by Akoya oysters and are known for their high luster and round shape. They are mostly found in Japan and China.
Tahitian Pearls:
These pearls are produced by black-lipped oysters and are known for their dark colors and large size. They are mostly found in French Polynesia.
South Sea Pearls:
These pearls are produced by large oysters found in Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. They are known for their large size and creamy white color.
How to Watch Pearl?
Watching pearl is an art. You need to appreciate the beauty of the pearl and understand its characteristics. Here are some tips on how to watch pearl:
1. Look for Luster:
Luster is the most important characteristic of a pearl. It refers to the way the pearl reflects light. A high-quality pearl will have a bright and reflective surface, while a low-quality pearl will have a dull surface.
2. Check for Surface Quality:
The surface of the pearl should be smooth and free from blemishes, spots, or cracks. A flawless pearl is very rare and expensive.
3. Observe the Color:
Pearls come in different colors such as white, black, pink, and golden. The color of the pearl should be even and consistent.
4. Look for Shape:
Round pearls are the most valuable, but other shapes such as oval, teardrop, and baroque are also available. The shape of the pearl should be symmetrical and well-proportioned.
5. Consider Size:
Pearls come in different sizes, ranging from 1mm to 20mm. The larger the pearl, the more expensive it is.
FAQs
Q. How to care for pearls?
A. Pearls are delicate and require special care. Store them in a soft pouch or cloth away from other jewelry. Avoid exposing them to chemicals, perfumes, or hairspray. Clean them with a soft cloth and mild soap.
Q. How to determine the value of a pearl?
A. The value of a pearl depends on its luster, surface quality, color, shape, and size. The more perfect the pearl, the higher its value.
Q. Can pearls be repaired?
A. Yes, pearls can be repaired. A professional jeweler can repair minor damages such as scratches or cracks.
Conclusion
Watching pearl is a fascinating experience. By understanding the characteristics of a pearl, you can appreciate its beauty and value. Remember to look for luster, surface quality, color, shape, and size when watching pearl. With proper care, pearls can last a lifetime.