John Hardy Classic Chain & Pearl Earrings, $650.
John Hardy Classic Chain & Freshwater Pearl Necklace, $1,100.
Pearls can be natural, meaning they were formed in the oyster with no human intervention, or they can be cultured. Natural pearls are very rare and found mainly in the Gulf region of the Middle East. Understandably, they carry a hefty price tag. Cultured pearls run the gamut as far as price goes. At the least expensive end of the spectrum are freshwater pearls, ranging in color from cream to pink, from gray to lavender, and even golden hues. They are cultivated mainly in ponds and small lakes in China. Freshwater varieties are also sometimes dyed various colors for use in inexpensive costume jewelry.
R.F. Moeller Designs 14k Rose Gold & Pearl Drop Earrings, $1,225.
The more luxurious saltwater pearls can be divided into three general categories: South Sea pearls from the oyster Pinctada maxima , from the warm waters off Australia, the Philippines, and Indonesia, ranging from white to spectacular gold; Tahitian pearls from Pinctada margaritifera oysters in French Polynesia, ranging from black to multi-color peacock; and Akoya pearls from the Pinctada fucata oyster, grown in the cool to temperate seas near Japan and China, with a brilliant luster in cream to pink to gold.
Because pearls are organic, they require special care. They can be damaged if they come in contact with perfume, cosmetics, hairspray, or household cleaners. It is good practice, therefore, to put them on last and, take them off first, and then store them in a soft cloth pouch — never in plastic, because it can emit a chemical that damages the pearl’s surface. Pearls should also be worn often to let them absorb moisture from the skin, which prevents them from drying out. With a little care, these popular, prized, and precious gems can be enjoyed forever.
Mikimoto 8-8.5mm AA Pearl Stud Earrings, $1,520.
Marco Bicego Africa Collection 18k Yellow Gold & Pearl French Wire Earrings, $1,460.
12 R.F. MOELLER MAGAZINE
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