Pearls: The Gem of the Sea
Different types of oysters produce different pearl colors, sizes and shapes. Different types of oysters produce different pearl colors, sizes and shapes. Different types of oysters produce different pearl colors, sizes and shapes.
Natural Pearls
A natural pearl is created organically when an irritant accidentally finds itself inside the oyster's soft tissue muscle. Irritants, such as seawater, sand, or dust, activate the oyster's defense mechanisms, causing it to produce layers of secretion. The secretion, or nacre, slowly develops into a natural pearl. Because of this, Natural Pearls are much rare and more valuable.
Cultured Pearls
Most pearls on the market today are cultured. A cultured pearl is a natural pearl produced by an oyster or mollusk, but with human assistance. The survival rates of Cultured Pearls are much higher because they are created in controlled environments. Pearl farmers are then able to produce high-quality, authentic pearls at a higher rate than what can be obtained by oyster divers. The two main types of cultured pearls are freshwater and saltwater pearls.