Types of Pearls

There are two classification of pearls: natural and cultured. The former can be found by chance by shellfish harvesters. No kind of human intervention is involved in this process. But, it is a rare chance to find a pearl in such process and hence they are very costly. Natural pearls are also smaller in size. Cultured pearls are more of manmade pearls. An irritant is added into the mollusks’ shell. Cultured pearls at Atelier Lou are divided into: 

• Akoya Pearls

They are also called classic pearls. They are usually grown in the Japanese coast since 100 years. 

• Freshwater Pearls 

These are hands down the cheapest pearls you will find in the market and are also the best choice for women who are way too conscious about their fashion. These pearls are known for their baroque shapes and is available in a lot of pastel colors. They also bear less luster than Akoya pearls. 

• Tahitian Pearls 

These pearls are also termed dark and exotic. They are always black in the first place but they can also be found in different colors like green, blue, and grey. They are usually found in French Polynesia. Round Tahitian pearls are quite a rare occurrence and are usually found in shapes like drops and ovals. 

• South Sea Pearls 

These pearls are deemed the Rolls Royce of all pearls as they are the largest pearls grown today. They can be easily found in Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia and are found in many colors. The size makes them unique, hence ideal for statement jewelry. 

Real vs. fake pearls

1. When you view the pearls under a magnifying glass, you may be able to see surface ridges like sand dunes on real pearls, but the fake ones may look smooth or have small bubbles.
2. Real pearls bear an enhanced color with overtones from multiple other shades. Fake pearls look more white and flat.
3. Real pearls are cold to touch, but you won’t feel the same when touching the fake ones.
4. If you rub real pearls across your teeth, you may sense grittiness, but the fake pearls will feel smooth.
5. Real pearl may seem smooth when you drill a hole into them, but fake pearls may feel rough or may have some bumps. For more, visit the website.