Pearls, possibly the second most desired stone after diamonds, have existed throughout history. Pearls are ageless, but in order to properly appreciate the enchantment of gemstones, you must first understand how they are made. You might be surprised to learn that pearls are made in two methods rather than just one. In fact, you may not even be aware of how pearls are made.
What’s the Difference Between Freshwater and Natural Pearls?
Although they have a similar look, the process of manufacturing pearls distinguishes freshwater pearls from natural pearls. According to Wang, freshwater pearls are cultured, or cultured pearls, as opposed to natural pearls or “sea pearls” found in the open sea. When irritants infiltrate the shells of oysters, natural pearls form. As a type of defense against the foreign substance, the diamond begins to create light around it.
Freshwater pearls are formed in the same way that saltwater pearls are formed when an irritant penetrates the oyster, but this irritation is introduced into the shell by a human. Yes, this strategy may appear harsh, but it is truly recommended. When oysters are harvested organically from the ocean, there is no way of knowing whether or not they contain a pearl. If it doesn’t, it will usually be thrown back into the ocean and die. Pearl farming reduces waste because administering the irritant manually checks the oyster has a pearl before opening and killing it.
What About the Price?
Pearls are unquestionably pricey, however freshwater pearls are less so when compared to genuine pearls. This is due to the availability of freshwater pearls in comparison to natural pearls. In fact, Wang claims that when pearl farming, many pearls can be found inside a single oyster. “If the oyster is really great and has a high potential, it can host multiple, like 10 to 20 pearls,” she explains. Natural pearls are expensive due to their perfection and uniqueness, although freshwater pearls can frequently be bought for under $100.
What Impact Do Pearls Have on the Environment?
Natural pearls were previously a prized possession due to their scarcity and beauty. While this is still true, utilizing genuine pearls in jewelry is becoming less frequent and may come at a cost higher than the price tag. “It’s not as eco-friendly to be extracting [oysters] from the ocean, because we need the oysters to be out there and part of the ecosystem,” Wang adds. While Wang recognizes that growing pearls takes away part of the romance, it is better for the environment than natural pearls. She adds that oysters work as a natural water cleaner by filtering the water around them.
