Pearl Types

In general, pearls are of dominantly colored white. However, there are also cases of subtle tints and colored hints, depending where the pearl is harvested. The coloration also varies according to the pearl's age. Some hues found in colored pearls are yellow, blue, pink, green, brown and purple.

The black pearl can be considered as the rarest and the most valued pearls of all time. This is because such pearls are very rarely produced by white pearl oysters and other kinds of bivalve mollusks. Black pearls are also very hard to culture for mollusks often reject the contents of black pearl substances, which cause them to die.

Contrary to common belief that the prettiest pearl is smooth and shiny, it has been know that real pearl possesses a sandy feel. In fact, the primary indicator towards knowing if the pearl you have is real or not is through biting it. Real pearl will feel gritty to the teeth. As for the price, it varies according to the layering of the pearls accumulated dirt and minerals. The more evenly and extensively layered the pearl, the higher its price. Harder pearls also sell for a higher price.

As of today, the most expensive and biggest pearl ever found in the world is the Pearl of Lao Tzu. It weighs 6.6 Kilograms and has a diameter of ten inches. It was found in the Philippines in 1980, but was rumored to have originally been in possession of the last dynasties of China.

Now that you know many things about the pearl, it's for you to experience its magnificent splendor. No need to dive for it nowadays though. All you've got to do is visit the nearest jewelry shop and start lavishing your self with the loveliest pearl earrings, bracelets and necklaces you can get.