The environment in which pearls are
Saturday, September 20th, 2008
The environment in which pearls are grown affects their quality. A pearl’s grade depends upon its luster, shape, and surface appearance. Luster refers to the reflection of light through the outer layers of the pearl. Larger pearls have more layers, and so have greater luster. High luster receives a higher grade than low luster.
Round pearls are the most difficult to grow, and thus are considered more valuable and receive a higher grade than those that are off-round. Although the classic pearl shape is round, fashion pearl jewelry often features unique pearl shapes that are just as beautiful and captivating as round pearls.
The pearl surface is graded according to the numbers and kinds of imperfections on the pearl. A pearl’s blemish may appear as a bubble, a line, or a dark spot. Ninety-five percent of the surface of an AAA pearl is free from defects.
When you’re shopping for pearl jewelry, keep in mind how pearls are grown and graded, but make your own decision about the qualities are important to you.
When Charles, Prince of Wales decided to seek the hand of Lady Diana, diamond was not even in the running. Rumor has it that a call went out for a perfect ruby above six carats to consummate the royal betrothal. So rare is the pigeon blood stone that a suitable candidate could not be found. Instead the Prince made due with an eighteen carat sapphire reportedly from Sri Lanka.
Though the British royal family is not known as tight, the royals are justly admired for their sophistication, knowledge of gemstones and their desire squeeze full value from every, er, pound. Yet historically diamond is not been the gem of choice; aside from Diana, Princess Anne received a sapphire and Andrew gave Fergie a ruby. Do their Royal Highnesses know something we don’t?
Could it be the hype? Diamonds are touted as the “traditional” engagement stone but, whose tradition? The fact is that it all began in 1939 when Harry Openheimer the president of the De Beers cartel visited New York to meet with Gerold M. Lauck the president of N.W. Ayer, a leading advertising agency.
Though this interesting website about pearl jewelry, you can find the highest quality custom freshwater pearl beads, freshwater pearl strands, freshwater pearl neckalce, freshwater pearl bracelet, freshwater pearl ring, freshwater pearl earrings, freshwater pearl pendant, sterling silver jewelry, single strand necklaces… online. Their designers and creators have been in the jewelry business are very special, and they always stayed in touch with the latest jewelry fashion trends the entire time.
