Pearl
Colours
black, golden, yellow, pink, cream and white
Mineral name
Organic Mineral
Other names
Pearl
Physical Properties
Varied shapes
Occurrence
Persian Gulf, Gulf of Manaar, Red Sea, NW Australian Coast, Gulfs of California and Florida
General Gem Information
Old Arabian legend says that pearl was formed when dewdrops filled with moonlight fell into the ocean and were swallowed by oysters. American Indians found pearl in the mollusks of the Mississippi River and strung them onto necklaces, adorned headdresses, and set them into copper ornaments.
For over 2000 years, the Persian Gulf has supplied the most beautiful pearls, "Basra Pearls". Pearls are still found Sri Lanka, Venzuela, Mexico, Australia, Bay of Bengal and India. However, China and Japan also supply a large quantity of Pearls. However, many pearls on the market today are cultured. Bombay has been a center for Pearl drilling for hundreds of years and India is still today famous for its Pearls.
Pearls generally used in jewelry are either Cultured or Freshwater. Seawater Pearls are the most precious, as they are naturally grown and gathered. The arduous process of finding enough Pearls for an article of jewelry is reflected in the price. To compensate, Pearl cultivation produces most of the Seawater Pearls at this time. In addition, there are varied manufactured Pearls widely available. Consumers should be aware that Manufactured Pearls may vary drastically....from plastic coated beads to Shell Pearls, which are manufactured from actual Pearls. Freshwater Pearls provide an attractive alternative. With the same lustre and beauty, the irregularity of these Pearls provide both interest and variation.
Pearls are formed by molluscs secreting "nacre" to protect themselves from irritation by grains of sand lodged inside their shell. As these grains may be of different shapes, irregular shaped pearls are formed. Because a perfectly round natural pearl is rare, the time and effort required to gather enough similar pearls to create a necklace is extreme. For this reaon, cultivation was developed.
Cultivated pearls are created by implanting a perfectly round, consistently sized object inside the oyster. They are then "farmed" in order to created consistent quality, shape and size in the pearl. Both Seawater and Freshwater Pearls may be cultivated. Japan has been a center of Pearl cultivation for some years.
"Shell Pearls" are Pearls manufactured from the Shell of the Oyster. They are not imitation in the sense that they are created from the identical substances contained in natural peals. However, they are manufactured. Majorca Pearls are the most commonly known Shell Pearls. However, regions in India are now renowned for the quality of their Shell Pearl.
Pearls come in different colours, including black, golden, yellow, pink, cream and white. While some Pearls may be tinted artificially, the colour of natural Pearls is influenced by the type of shellfish and the local conditions.
Pearls of irregular shape are called "Baroque Pearls"
Attributes affecting Pearl prices
Lustre
The lustre of a Pearl is also known as the "orient of a Pearl". Lustre is the glow of the pearl and its brilliance to the human eye. The longer the pearl is left in the oyster to grow in its nacre casing, the higher the luster.
Surface condition
The fewer the natural markings or spots on the pearl’s visible surface, the more expensive the pearl.
Shape
The more spherical (round) and symmetrical the pearl, the more valuable it will be. Baroque pearls (any unusually shaped and asymmetrical pearl) can be very attractive and are usually less expensive than round pearls.
Colour
Pearls are available in a rainbow of colors. For example: pinkish (often called rose), silvery white, greenish white, creamy, golden, gray, cognac and black. Color enhancement is considered the norm for both colored and white base pearls. Color consistency effects value; however, current fashion trends and color demand conditions also effect pearl prices.
Size
Pearl diameter is measured in millimeters. Generally, the larger the pearl, the more rare it is and the more valuable.
Matching
For pearl necklaces the overall look is very important, regardless of the quality of the individual pearls. The more uniform and aesthetically pleasing two or more pearls look together the more time was spent matching the pearls. This time to match pearls is reflected in the cost. Rarity Because pearls are not cut or polished when removed from the oyster or mussel, certain sizes, qualities and colors may from time to time be in scarce supply. Overall health of pearl growing oysters and mussels effect pearl size and quality availability. This precious stone can be harmed if subjected to hair spray, acids, perspiration, and some types of cosmetics.
Astrological Information
Please note: The Astrological Information and Metaphysical Information are for information purposes only. They are not meant to diagnose any condition nor recommend any course of action or treatment. The information has been dlilgently researched and relayed, but no claim is made as to its accuracy or effectiveness. Consult a professional.
Metaphysical Information
Pearl is thought to improve integrity, focus the attention in a balanced manner and reduce irritability and stress. It balances the emotions, aids digestion, eases stomach problems. The white colour symbolises a pure heart and mind, innocence, charity and faith. For this reason, it is popular with brides.
Freshwater Pearls help us to accept love by allowing oneself to see their own inner strength and goodness.
Chakra
Worn as jewelry, it primarily acts on the 6th Chakra.
