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Pearls

The pearl has made its mark in history and continues to be the cornerstone of classic style, culture and refinement. Cleopatra is believed to have worn them and the Greeks esteemed the pearl for its association with love and marriage. Ancient Romans considered pearls the ultimate symbol of power.

Pearls have been known as the foundation of the modern woman’s wardrobe. The elegance of fine pearls is a fashion statement in the work place as well as a night on the town. Fashionable, luxurious and adaptable, pearls enhance a woman’s style. Today, pearls are worn for practically any occasion. There is nothing better than pearls with a crisp white shirt, jeans and boots.

What is a Pearl?
A pearl begins its life when a grain of sand or other small foreign object accidentally enters into an oyster’s soft inner body. The oyster tries to expel the foreign object, but when it cannot, it becomes an irritation.

To protect itself, the oyster takes a defensive action. It produces a smooth liquid called nacre, to cover the irritant. Layer upon layer of this silky substance continues to cover the irritant, which results in a lovely, lustrous gem called a pearl.

Whether the pearls form naturally or with human assistance, the same basic concept permits them to grow.

Cultured vs. Natural Pearls
There are two major divisions among categories of pearls: naturally occurring pearls and cultivated (or cultured) pearls. The great majority of pearls grown today come from the latter category.

There are two significant subcategories under the cultured aegis – the freshwater cultured pearl and saltwater cultured pearl. Delving deeper, the saltwater cultured pearl designation is applied to two separate varieties based on geographical location, size and color-distinction. The two varieties are: white and black South Sea pearls and Akoya pearls. Japan has been cultivating pearls since mid 1920’s. Where China has been learning cultivating techniques for less than 20 years. Today, the majority of the world’s pearls are the freshwater pearls that come from China.