Pearls are a classic gemstone that have been treasured for centuries. They're known for their natural beauty, luster, and unique qualities. But are all pearls equal? What's makes some pearls more expensive than others? There are several types of pearls, including freshwater pearls, cultured pearls, and authentic pearls. In this post, we'll share the differences between these three types of pearls and how we use them at Nickel & Suede.
Freshwater Pearls
Freshwater pearls are produced by freshwater mussels that live in rivers, lakes, and ponds. These pearls are usually less expensive than other types of pearls because they're easier to produce. Freshwater pearls come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be dyed to create a range of colors, from white and pink to purple and black.
Example: Terracotta Esti Leather Earring
Cultured Pearls
Cultured pearls are grown by oysters or mussels in a controlled environment, such as a pearl farm. Cultured pearls are produced by inserting a small bead or piece of tissue into the mollusk, which stimulates the growth of the pearl. These pearls are more uniform in size and shape than freshwater pearls, and they come in a wider range of colors, including white, black, pink, and gold.
Example: Pearl Drop Huggies, Pearl Charm, Pearl Hoop
Glass Pearls
Glass pearls, on the other hand, are artificial and are made from glass. They are available in a wider range of colors and shapes than natural or cultured pearls, and they are often less expensive. Glass pearls also tend to be more durable than other types of pearls since they are less likely to chip, fade, or peel.
Example: Pearl Ear Cuff, Beaded Pearl Huggie Hoop, Pearl Ball Stud
Authentic Pearls
Authentic pearls are pearls that occur naturally without any human intervention. These pearls are extremely rare and valuable, and they're usually only found in deep sea mollusks. Authentic pearls come in a range of shapes, sizes, and colors, and they're highly prized by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
We do not currently use authentic pearls at N&S.