WHY PEARLS?

Pearls are beautiful, classic and elegant; it is therefore no surprise that every year thousands of brides around the world make the pearl their gemstone of choice. One of the best attributes of the pearl is its ability to flatter any wardrobe, skin color, face or shape. Pearls are Mother Nature-friendly they never cause any allergy (skin reaction) hence it is the jewelry of choice for some of us that cant handle the metals.

Current trend in the Pearl industry:- 

ADRIANO GENISI has devoted 20 years of his life following consulting and reporting on cultured pearls. On his blog page recently posted that Freshwater pearl price is on the rise in China. China happens to be the worlds largest Pearl farm 

Zhuji, China’s biggest pearl production base, has more than 2,500 pearl farmers and manufacturers, according to Qian Hongfei, deputy secretary general of of the China pearl association. Zhuji’s pearl industry generated RMB 10 billion (about $1.64 billion) in revenues in 2012.

It takes four to six years before you make your harvest from a Pearl farm. 

I particularly found it interesting to learn about the different types of Pearls – so I decided to share this “Pearl Types QuickGuide” 
 

Akoya

These are Lustrously Delicate Cultured Pearls farmed in Japanese and Chinese ocean water. They are Created by a type of oyster called Pinctada fucata martensii: The "Akoya Pearl" Oyster which are usually small, typically found in sizes of 2-8mm with 8-10mm being considered very large for Akoya pearls. They are known for their white to cream coloration. Some cultures, especially Japan, value a very slight pink tinge to the pearl. They are also valued for their mirror-like luster and depth.
 

Tahitian - Black and Bold

These are Cultured pearls farmed in Polynesian ocean water. They are Created by a type of oyster called Pinctada margaritifera: the "black-lip oyster". These oysters are larger and can produce pearls as large as 16mm, though 8-10mm is more common. Colloquially called "black pearls" they range from light gray to very dark gray. 

They can exhibit green, blue and purple colors, with the most valued pieces showing a shinny spectrum of colors. Tahitian pearls showing a variety of all these hues are often called "peacock" color and are among the most prized.
 

South Seas - The Big Kahuna

These are cultured Pearls farmed largely in Australian ocean waters, but some in other south seas locations such as the Philippines and Fiji. They are created by a type of oyster called Pinctada maxima: the "gold-lip oyster". These oysters produce the largest pearls sometimes with pieces that over 20mm in diameter. More typical is 10-12mm.

They are often white, but also often come in a golden-yellow color most often called "golden pearls". Other colors such as pink are found, but are rarer. Australian Farms tend to produce White Pearls, While Golden Pearls most often come from more easterly locations such as the Philippines.
 

Freshwater Pearls - Affordable Elegance

These are cultured mostly in Chinese freshwater rivers and lakes. Some are cultured in Japan and other locations as well. Generally created by freshwater mussels; Freshwater pearls come in a broad variety of colors. Many are bleached to produce white coloration, or dyed to mimic the gray or golden hues of other pearls. As pearls are porous, the dyes are absorbed deep into the pearl and are relatively permanent. Dying of pearls has become widely accepted - when properly disclosed.

Freshwater pearls have been increasing in size as cultivation techniques improve. Today, they rival Tahitian and South-Sea pearls in size and examples of 12mm and larger are beginning to appear.

Freshwater pearls, while beautiful, typically do not achieve quite the same luster or roundness as saltwater pearls, and prices are thus more affordable. But as quality increases, prices have been rising too.
 

Pearls are they just for women right? – Noop! Mens Cuff links and brooches have been made with pearls and trending towards a must-have accessory for the groom on the most beautiful day. The pearl cufflinks adorn the suit, making it chic, and they are the ideal for auspicious joy and happiness.

And why not, they can also be a good idea as a wedding present from the future in-laws, or a lovely present from the bride. 

Share you comments or ask any questions – will be glad to respond!

see more at http://uchemart.com/estate-sterling-silver-.92