Rummeles Jewelers Magazine Autumn_Holiday 2022

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

Mikimoto 18K white gold Morning Dew black south sea cultured pearl pendant.

Mikimoto Akoya Cultured Pearl Pendant with Diamonds in 18K White Gold.

Mikimoto 18K white gold black South Sea cultured pearl stud earrings.

from cream to pink, from gray to lavender, and even gold hues. They are cultivated mainly in ponds and small lakes in China. Freshwater varieties are also sometimes dyed various

The more expensive seawater 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.

colors for use in inexpensive fashion jewelry.

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.

Cultured pearl station necklace from the M Code collection by Mikimoto.

21 RUMMELE’S JEWELERS MAGAZINE

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