Are freshwater & saltwater pearls different?
Freshwater pearls are created in mussels, lakes, rivers and ponds, and today come mostly from China. Saltwater pearls are produced by saltwater oysters that live in oceans and seas.
Saltwater pearls include Akoya, found in places such as Japan, China, Vietnam, etc. and South Sea, and Tahitian pearls found in the waters of French Polynesia. Saltwater pearls take a longer time to form than freashwater pearls. They come in a variety of colors, including white, black, silver, and gold and have rounder shapes than freshwater pearls.
The price of pearls depends on where they are grown; freshwater pearls are cheaper than saltwater.
High quality pearls are free of discolorations, scratches, cracks or chips. The most highly valued shape is perfectly round. Matched strands of pearls are more expensive than graduated or multicolored necklaces. This is true because it is almost impossible to find pearls that are alike in color,size, shape and luster.
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How should you clean pearls?
Clean your pearls by wiping them off with a slightly damp cloth. If you think they look dingy put in a dish of water (1/2 cup water) with one teaspoon of baking soda. Rinse thoroughly in clear water and lay them flat to dry before you put them away. Moisture will strengthen the silk threading. Store your pearls in a soft cloth away from sunlight and heat. Pearls can lose their luster if they are not exposed to air. Whether your pearls are cultured or simulated, special care is required when it comes to caring for them.
Are pearls in style today?
Pearls have been worn by royalty and style icons for centuries. At one time a pearl necklace was a gift from the bridegroom for the bride to wear on her wedding day. Pearls are timeless classics; luminous, elegant, stylish and versatile. Pearls can be combined with the metals (gold and silver) or sparkly stones (quality rhinestone or diamonds) for an up to date look. Pearls look chic with a tee-shirt or party dress. Designers are putting pearls on footwear, legwear, sweaters, clothing and accessories. For a new look try combining a pearl necklace or two with a pendant, shiny chains and or vintage pieces. You can invest in a beautiful pearl necklace for a statement piece and wear it almost all the time.
Can I wear pearls without looking matronly?
Pearls are associated as looking matronly by some modern women. However pearls are timeless and always in fashion. Today jewelry designers are fashioning pearls in very modern designs. Pearls combined in various sizes are very trendy today. Pearls are being spaced and strung on metal strands (gold or silver) or are available in a number of colors. Updated ways to wear pearl necklaces is to combine them with colored beads, diamonds or colored stones. Wear them with a pendant and / or combine necklaces of different lengths together. The fashion forward woman is always comfortable and “in style” wearing pearls.