Types of Pearls:
When it comes to pearls, you won't be stuck for choice. There are many different types of pearls to choose from and each pearl has its own unique set of properties.
Pearls come in all different shapes, sizes and colours. To make it easier, we've put together the ultimate guide to help understand the different types of pearls.
What are the Different Types of Pearls?
There are many different types of pearls. The 4 main groups are:
Freshwater Pearls – these types of pearls can be found in lakes and ponds. Freshwater pearls are the most commonly produced pearls and are often used in jewellery.
Akoya Pearls – these pearls are usually round and white. Many Akoya pearls come from Japan and China.
Tahitian Pearls – these pearls are often blue, green, grey or brown and can be found in the islands of French Polynesia, such as in Tahiti.
South Sea Pearls – these are rare pearls which are often white and gold. These pearls have a longer growth period which means that they are often rarer and more expensive. South sea pearls are often found in Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines.
What is a Natural Pearl?
Natural pearls are formed in nature, meaning that no human intervention is needed. Natural pearls form when irritants such as sand enter the muscle of an oyster. Natural pearls are more rare and more valuable than cultured pearls.
What are Cultured Pearls?
Cultured pearls are formed in the same way as natural pearls but human intervention is used to help the process along.
A skilled technician takes mantle tissue from a mollusc and inserts a bead with a small piece of tissue into the mollusc's gonad for the pearl to form.
What is the Difference between Saltwater and Freshwater Pearls?
Freshwater Pearls are those which come from mussels which live in freshwater such as lakes and rivers. Saltwater pearls are pearls which come from salt water such as the sea.
What are Baroque Pearls?
Baroque Pearls are a unique type of pearl which is characterised by its irregular shape. This type of pearl is unique in shape, size and lustre. Wear your baroque pearl on its own as a necklace or layer it with lockets for an on-trend look.
How to Wear Pearls:
You can never go wrong with pearl jewellery. Pearls have stood the test of time and add elegance to any outfit. Here’s some of our favourite ways to wear them:
Pearl Necklace
Pearls are a timeless piece of jewellery which add elegance to any outfit. Wear a single pearl necklace for a simple yet sophisticated look.
Pearl Earrings:
Elevate your jewellery with a pair of Dainty Pearl Hoop Earrings Choose from our freshwater ivory pearls or tiny midnight blue seed pearls.
Pearl Bracelet:
Add elegance to your outfit with our Twist Pearl Bracelet made with freshwater pearls.
What Birthstone is Associated with Pearl?
Pearl is the birthstone for June along with moonstone and alexandrite. Pearls symbolise love, happiness and wisdom making them a perfect gift for a June birthday or loved one.
Lily Blanche Pearls:
At Lily Blanche, we use real freshwater, cultured pearls from a sustainable source. Discover our range of pearl necklaces, earrings and bracelets below