Though classified as a gemstone, pearls are extremely unique, largely due to the fact that they are the only gem material formed and found within a living creature. A large amount of nacre that forms around the irritant over time eventually becomes a pearl.
How pearls are graded?
Pearls are a smooth, rounded bead formed within the shells of certain mollusks and composed of the mineral aragonite or calcite in a matrix, deposited in concentric layers as a protective coating around an irritating foreign object: valued as a gem when lustrous and finely colored.
Cultured Akoya and Freshwater pearls are graded according to Surface Quality, Luster, and perfection of Shape (roundness and symmetry). Akoya pearls are also graded on Nacre Thickness, which is a visual inspection completed by the grader rather than via x-ray analysis.
The three main categories of shape are spherical, symmetrical, and asymmetrical (semi-baroque and baroque). Pearls come in seven basic shapes: round, near-round, button, drop, oval, semi-baroque, and baroque.
There are four main types of pearls that come in a variety of shapes, colours, and sizes.
Freshwater pearls. Freshwater pearls are the most common and least expensive.
Akoya pearls. Deemed the classic pearl, these come to mind when you think about the perfect pearl.
Tahitian black pearls.
South Sea pearls. The most valuable and expensive pearls on the market today are the South Sea pearls, which naturally occur in shades of white and gold.
What do the different colors of pearls mean?
Pearls are the ultimate symbol for wisdom. Valued for their calming effects, pearls represent serenity, while being able to strengthen valuable relationships and convey a sense of safety. Pearls also symbolize purity, as well as integrity and loyalty.
Generally speaking, pearls symbolize health, peace, wealth, and longevity. ... Black pearls symbolize wisdom; white pearls symbolize a lifetime of happiness for two; pink pearls symbolize the most romantic love; purple pearls symbolize health; golden pearls symbolize the acquisition of wealth.