Black Pearls, Tahitian Pearls, and South Sea Pearls

Pearls have an exquisite beauty that can not be duplicated by any other material, natural or man made. For centuries these rare items have captivated the minds of women across the globe. They have been used for generations in jewelry and as accents on clothing.

Pearls are our obsession at Balkanpearls.com. The uniqueness and beauty of each individual pearl is truly a wonder. They have a soft luster that is unmatched in the world of jewelry and are highly prized for their rare characteristics. Our site is devoted to providing the general public with an informational resource regarding the differences and commonalities of all types of pearls.

Natural pearls are often the most expensive. The reason is that naturally occurring pearls are extremely rare and are often fairly labor intensive to harvest. Previous to the late 19th century, natural pearls were the only variety that were available.

During the late 19th century, a Japanese man named Kokichi Mikimoto discovered how to bypass nature and induce pearl growth at will. This was the origins of what we now called cultured pearls. This process revolutionized the industry by eliminating the need to harvest thousands of oysters in order to find just a few pearls. Mikimoto pearls could be easily produced, with a much more predictable harvest.

Tahitian pearls, commonly called black pearls, are among the most valued of any pearl variety. Although they are call “black” due to their color, the truth is these beautiful items can actually be found in a range of colors. They are primarily harvested throughout French Polynesia, from the shallow lagoons surrounding many of the islands around the region. These are often used for creating very uniquely designed pieces of jewelry.

Of all the pearl varieties, South Sea pearls are by far the largest. These pearls grow inside one of the largest oysters on earth, often measuring nearly a foot in diameter. They are also renowned for unique color characteristics and satin-like finish. These attributes are the primary reason that these particular pearls are often so expensive.

Pearl jewelry has been treasured for millennia. They are considered the oldest of precious gems, and their use in jewelry can be traced as far back as 500 B.C. Because no two pearls are ever alike, their use in jewelry design ensures each piece is unique.

Pearl necklaces are classic pieces of women’s jewelry, as are pearl earrings. For centuries, only aristocrats were allowed to wear such finery; and that air of luxury and opulence is still synonymous with their use in jewelry. The pearl necklace is a symbol of elegance and refinery; and it is not uncommon for such pieces to be kept as family heirlooms. While many expensive pearl necklaces have long, multi-string designs, a simple, single string is often the most sophisticated.

Whatever the occasion, a pearl bracelet, necklace, or earrings is sure to be the perfect gift for the woman in your life. The pearl is a rare and beautiful gift with a grand history.

 

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