Pearls are one of the most coveted of gems. They have long been popular as wedding gifts and bridal apparel, can frequently be found set in spectacular jewelry surrounded by diamonds and are distinct among jewels in that the pearl is created by a living creature. The pearl comes in many shapes, colors and textures. Two of the most important differences among pearls are the differences between saltwater and cultured freshwater pearls.
Identification
Freshwater, or cultured, pearls are grown in freshwater mussels. Unlike naturally created saltwater mussel pearls, freshwater pearls are grown in a complicated process called "grafting."
Origins
While there are some small pockets of cultured freshwater pearl production in the United States and Japan, China is by far the major producer of freshwater pearls.
Process
In the process of grafting, a small piece of one part of the mussel, the mantle, is cut out and inserted into various places in both upper and lower valves of the mussel. As the mussel works to get rid of the inserted flesh, layers of pearly nacre are secreted, and a pearl is created.
Salt vs. Fresh
Saltwater mussels produce only one or two pearls at a time, and the rarity renders them expensive. Cultured freshwater mussels, however, can produce up to 50 pearls at a time, making freshwater pearls a much more affordable option.
Characteristics
Freshwater pearls are popular because they are available in many different shapes and sizes and have a tremendous range of color.
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