Pearls are unique among gemstone due to their classic look. They are natural organic product of living creatures. Today, most of pearls are cultured which means they are not naturally occurring that they the irritant is introduces into the oyster. Pearls are often misunderstood, mostly due to a lack of knowledge about the many variants of colors, shapes and sizes. So, here we're present you a short guide how to choose a pearl.

Pearl Type
There are variety of oysters and mussels and each produces a different type of pearl including Freshwater pearls and three types of saltwater pearl known as Akoya pearls, Tahitian pearls and South Sea pearls. Learn more about the different types of pearls here:

  1. Fresh Water Pearl:
  2. These pearls are grown in rivers, ponds, and lakes rather than in large bodies of saltwater. Freshwater pearls are created using smaller oysters, resulting in more petite stones. They available in wide variety of shapes and colorations. It is a good option for those seeking the beauty and elegance of pearl jewellery at a more economical price.

  3. Akoya Pearls:
  4. Akoya pearls are original cultured pearl that can be define as a beautiful, white, shiny,small and round gem. Exemplifying the classic pearl appearance, they are usually found in classic white or cream colorations. Their small size and desirable round shape make Akoya pearls ideal for use in fine jewellery.

  5. South-Sea Pearls:
  6. South sea pearls are the biggest of all pearl types. These types of pearl engendered by the pinctdata maximaoyster, which is the largest of all pearl grwing oyster. The shine isn't mirror like as in Akoya pearls but it's just beautiful. Their incredible size, color and luster makes it the most expensive type of pearl to buy.

  7. Tahitian Pearls:
  8. Tahitian pearls are actually cultured in French polynesia from black-lipped oyster. These pearls are naturally colored blue, silver, grey, blue or blue overtones. Tahitian pearls are generally bigger than average often referred to as "black pearls" . It is the perfect accent to fuse contemporary style with classic glamour.

Pearl Shape
Pearls develop in variety of shapes like semi round, oval, and semi baroque. Although these variations can be quite beautiful, but they are less valuable as compare to round stones. Tahitian , South Sea Pearl and Akoya found in jewellery have a tendency to be roundest, while Freshwater pearls can be oval.

Pearl Color
Generally pearl colors are white, yellow, cream, black, silver and pink. While color is a matter of preference, silver and white pearls suits on fair skin tones, while gold and cream cultured pearls are flattering to darker complexions.

Size of Pearl
Size of pearl is another factor to determine the value of a pearl. Generally, A size of a pearl depends on the type of pearl. Freshwater pearls are generally the smallest variety. Akoya pearls are typically more petite than South Sea Pearls and Tahitian, which can measure up to 20mm.

Surface Quality
Pearls are a natural product typified be a smooth surface. But in actual, very few authentic pearls are completely unmarked. A cultured pearl with a clean surface will have a higher value than a spotted, bumpy or cracked one.

Care & Maintenance
Pearls are nature grown exterior, that needs special care and attention. To preserve the beauty of cultured peals, eliminate exposure to sprays, perfumes, cosmetics as these can cause discoloration. Use a soft cloth moistened with water and mid soap to gently wipe off surface dirt. When they're not being worn, store your pearls in a separate compartment to prevent them from getting scratched by other jewellery piece.

Author's Bio: 

Twinkle Diamonds Sydney offers a rich collection of the finest diamond jewellery,including intricately custom made engagement rings, wedding rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets & pendants which we cater to your budget. Also, They provide Tahitian & South Sea Pearls Jewellery in Sydney.