Todo lo que necesitas saber sobre las perlas – OROBRIZ

Pearls have been synonymous with elegance, purity and sophistication for centuries. Whether adorning royalty or being part of family heirlooms, pearls hold a special place in the world of jewelry. At OROBRIZ, we appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of each pearl. In this article, we will take you to discover everything you need to know about pearls: their types, origins, and how to properly care for them.

What are pearls?

Pearls are organic gems that form within the soft tissues of mollusks, such as oysters and mussels. Unlike other gems, pearls are created entirely by living organisms, making each one unique. The formation process begins when a foreign body, such as a grain of sand, is introduced inside the mollusk. In response, the mollusk covers this intruder with layers of nacre, creating what we know as a pearl.

Types of pearls

There are several types of pearls, each with its own characteristics and value. Below we detail the most common types:

1. Saltwater pearls

Saltwater pearls are formed inside oysters that live in oceans. They are known for their superior quality and intense luster.

• Akoya Pearls : Originally from Japan and China, Akoya pearls are prized for their luster and white or cream color.
• South Sea Pearls : These pearls come from Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia and are usually larger and have golden or silver tones.
• Tahitian Pearls : Famous for their dark colors, these pearls are cultivated in French Polynesia and can range from black to green, purple and blue hues.

2. Freshwater pearls

Freshwater pearls are grown in lakes and rivers, primarily in China. While they are generally more affordable than saltwater pearls, they can also be incredibly beautiful and come in a wide variety of shapes and colors.

3. Natural pearls vs. cultured pearls

Natural pearls are extremely rare and are formed without human intervention. Today, most pearls on the market are cultured pearls , meaning that irritants are manually introduced into the mollusk to encourage pearl production.

Factors that determine the value of a pearl

Like diamonds, pearls are valued based on several factors. Here are the main ones:

• Size : Larger pearls are usually more valuable. Saltwater pearls, such as South Sea pearls, are generally larger than freshwater pearls.
• Shape : Perfectly round pearls are the most valuable, but there are also baroque shapes that are equally beautiful.
• Color : Pearls come in a range of colors, from classic white to gold, black, and even blue hues.
• Luster : Luster refers to the quality of the pearl’s surface and how it reflects light. The brighter and clearer the pearl, the higher its value.
• Surface : Pearls with fewer visible blemishes or spots are more valuable.

How to care for your pearls?

Pearls are delicate gems and require special care to maintain their shine and beauty for years to come. Here are some tips from OROBRIZ:

• Store them separately : Avoid having your pearls rub against other jewelry that could scratch them. Store your pearls in a soft cloth bag or in their own compartment.
• Avoid chemicals : Pearls are sensitive to perfumes, creams, and cleaning products. Make sure to put your pearls on after applying makeup or fragrance.
• Clean them gently : Use a soft, damp cloth to clean them after each use. This will help remove any sweat or product residue that may damage them.
• Wear them often : Unlike other jewelry, pearls benefit from skin contact, as natural oils help maintain their shine.

Conclusion

Pearls are much more than just gems; they are the result of a fascinating natural process that has captured the attention of jewelry lovers for centuries. Whether you prefer classic saltwater pearls or versatile freshwater pearls, at OROBRIZ we have a wide selection to suit all tastes. And now that you know more about these amazing gems, you are ready to choose the perfect pearls for yourself or to gift to someone special!