Pearl jewelry blends organic origin and enduring elegance. Cultured pearls now dominate the market in types like Akoya, freshwater, South Sea, and Tahitian. With proper care, pearls work in both classic and contemporary wardrobes.
Learn how imitation (faux) pearls are made, simple home checks (visual inspection, tooth test), why vinegar testing can be risky, and when to get professional verification.
Mabe (blister) pearls are domed cultured pearls grown on the inner shell surface and widely used in earrings and pendants. This article explains how they're made, graded and cared for, and what to ask about production practices.
Cultured techniques transformed black pearls from rare natural oddities into widely available gems. Today both saltwater Tahitian-style pearls and China's freshwater pearls supply a broad market - buyers should note origin, nucleation method, and treatments when judging value.
Choose pearl earrings by prioritizing luster, surface quality, shape, color, and size. Understand the main pearl types - Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea, and freshwater - and care for pearls to keep their glow.