The Origin of Pearls
Pearls, celebrated for their lustrous beauty and timeless elegance, have been cherished as precious gems for centuries.
Unlike other gemstones that are mined from the earth, pearls are born from the sea, produced by living organisms. This unique origin story, steeped in mystery and natural wonder, has fascinated humans since ancient times.
From Maharajas to celebrities like Rihanna, Harry Styles and Aubrey Hepburm, pearls have become a revered item of every jewellery collector. With Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor and Coco Chanel as pearl enthusiasts, it’s no surprise that they became one of the most wanted jewellery items.
The History of Pearls
Pearls were discovered before written history began, so it is hard to attribute their discovery to one particular time or place. We know that they have been worn as a form of jewellery for millennia thanks to a fragment of pearl jewellery found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess that dates back to 420 BC, which is now on display at the Louvre museum in Paris.
Pearls were presented as gifts to Chinese royalty as early as 2300 BC, while in ancient Rome, pearl jewellery was considered the ultimate status symbol. So precious were the spherical gems that in the 1st century BC, Julius Caesar passed a law limiting the wearing of pearls only to the ruling classes.
The difference between Natural Pearls and Cultured Pearls
Natural pearls are believed to form in the mantle membrane of an oyster, when a cell has been dislodged. This causes the secretion of thousands of layers of nacre building up over the initial cell. Taking over six years to form, with only one in two thousand oysters producing a pearl during their lifetime, even fewer of good quality, natural pearls are exceptionally scarce and incredibly high prices are paid.
Cultured pearls are formed by artificial initiation, by implanting mantle tissue or using a shell bead, causing the secretion of nacre over the bead. Cultured pearls take only a few months to a few years to grow.
Where are Pearls found?
In geographic range, the source of pearls is widely distributed, and different types of pearls are found in different locations.
South Sea white pearls are the top grade cultured pearl on the market. They are harvested from a silver or golden-lipped oyster, on the shorelines of Indonesia, Philippines, and Australia.
Whereas Akoya Cultured Pearls come exclusively from Japan’s saltwater, harvested from Pinctada Fucata oyster, also known as the Akoya pearl oyster. To the untrained eye, they appear similar to freshwater pearls, but tend to be rounder and smoother.
Freshwater pearls are found in the lakes and rivers of China, and to a lesser degree Japan and the USA. They are harvested from freshwater mussels, and tend to be white and pink in appearance.
Stunning black pearls are found exclusively in Tahiti and other French Polynesian islands, and despite the name, are found in hues of peacock green, silver green, charcoal, blue and eggplant, among others. They are harvested from the Pinctada Margaritifera oyster.
Natural Pearls Today
After a century of economic and social changes, one of the biggest hurdles the pearl market is now facing is the environment. The changing water temperature, ocean acidification and plankton profile are causing volatility in pearl production.
It is believed that 90% of natural saltwater pearls on the market were harvested over 90 years ago. This finite supply and increasing rarity of pearls has caused an explosive price increase in natural pearls over the past few decades.
Sustainable and Ethical Pearl Farming
Today, the pearl industry is increasingly focused on sustainability and ethical practices. Modern pearl farms strive to minimise environmental impact and ensure the welfare of the mollusks.
Sustainable pearl farming not only preserves marine ecosystems but also supports local communities by providing employment and promoting responsible aquaculture.
The origin of pearls is a testament to nature's ability to create beauty from adversity. From the depths of the ocean, these gems have emerged as symbols of purity, elegance, and timeless charm.
Whether natural or cultured, pearls continue to be cherished by those who appreciate their unique beauty and the fascinating journey from a simple irritant to a magnificent jewel. As we wear and admire pearls, we are reminded of the wondrous processes of nature and the enduring allure of these precious gems.
If you are looking to purchase or sell natural pearls, get in touch with one of our experts here at Hatton Jewels. Simply email info@hattonjewels.com or call us on 0203 116 0069 to speak with a member of our team.
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