What Are Freshwater Pearls?
Freshwater pearls are natural gems produced by freshwater mussels, today most of the freshwater pearls cultivated in rivers, lakes, and ponds in China. There are multi pearls in one freshwater pearl mussel, while salwater pearl oyesters are only produce 1 pearls inside. Freshwater pearls can be used for pearl jewelry making like freshwater pearl necklace, freshwater pearl earrings, freshwater pearl pendants and etc. Nowdays, 95% of the freshwater pearl in the market are from china.
freshwater pearl mussel
Freshwater Pearls vs Cultured Freshwater Pearls
Freshwater pearls and cultured freshwater pearls are often used interchangeably, both freshwater pearls and cultured freshwater pearls are real pearls. Nowdays most of the freshwater pearls you see in the market are cultured freshwater pearls. So the mentioned freshwater pearls in this article actually are the cultured freshwater pearls.
In case you are interested in knowing the difference between the natural freshwater pearl and cultured freshwater pearl, we’d like to introduce briefly.
Natural Freshwater pearls refer to pearls that naturally occur in freshwater mollusks, particularly mussels. These pearls form without human intervention. Historically, freshwater pearls were discovered in rivers, lakes, and other freshwater bodies, and they were harvested from natural sources. Natural freshwater pearls are relatively rare and valuable due to their unique shapes, colors, and luster.
Cultured freshwater pearls are far more common in the market compared to natural freshwater pearls. They are produced on pearl farms in controlled environments, where factors such as water quality, food supply, and mussel health are carefully monitored to optimize pearl production.
Types Of Freshwater Pearls
Freshwater pearls can be roughly divided into two types, one is mantle tissue necleated freshwater pearls, and the other is bead nucleated freshwater pearls. The bead necleated freshwater pearls are also known as Edison Pearls.
Link：What is edison pearl
Freshwater Pearl Shapes
Pearls come in all kinds of strange shapes. Round shape, near round, oval shape, keshi, baroque shape and etc. Because the proportion of perfectly round pearls is very low, in the past it was generally believed that only perfectly round pearls could be used for fine jewelry making. However the design of round beads was too simple, designers turned their attention to Baroque pearls. Baroque freswater pearls always provide designers with inspiration for a unique piece of pearl jewelry.
Freshwater Pearl colors
Freshwater pearls come in a stunning array of colors, ranging from classic whites and creams to more exotic shades such as pinks, lavenders, and even darker hues like blacks and greys. The natural color of a freshwater pearl is influenced by various factors including the type of mussel, the environment in which it grows, and the presence of minerals and organic matter in the water.
Howevert, most of the colored freshwater pearls in the market are with color treatment, they are not wit natural colors. For example black freshwater pearls, blue freshwater pearls, gold freshwater pearls and etc, they are all dyed freshwater pearls.
Freshwater Pearl Size
The size of a freshwater pearl generally range in size from 2.0 mm to 15.0 mm. A mantle tissue necleated freshwater pearl usually with size 2-9mm and the pearl with size more than 10.0 mm are very rare. And the bead necleated freshwater pearls or Edison Pearl usually is with size 9mm at least.
Freshwater Pearl Luster
The luster of freshwater pearls refers to their shine, brilliance, and reflective quality, which are key factors in determining their beauty and value. High luster is a desirable characteristic in pearls, as it indicates a smooth and reflective surface that enhances their overall appearance. Freshwater pearls are known for exhibiting a range of luster qualities, influenced by factors such as their cultivation environment, the quality of nacre deposition, and the care taken during harvesting and processing.
Here are some characteristics of freshwater pearl luster:
Mirror-Like Reflection: High-quality freshwater pearls often display a mirror-like reflection on their surface when exposed to light. This reflective quality gives the pearls a luminous glow and adds to their visual appeal.
Depth and Depth: The depth of luster refers to the perceived three-dimensional quality of the pearl's surface. Pearls with deep luster appear to have layers of light reflecting from within, creating a sense of depth and richness.
Surface Brilliance: Freshwater pearls with excellent luster exhibit a bright and radiant surface that catches and disperses light evenly across the pearl's surface. This surface brilliance contributes to the pearl's overall beauty and elegance.
Soft Glow: Some freshwater pearls may have a softer, more subtle luster compared to other types of pearls. While they may not exhibit as much intensity, these pearls still possess a gentle glow that adds to their allure and charm.
Uniformity: Consistency in luster across the surface of the pearl is a hallmark of high-quality freshwater pearls. Pearls with uniform luster appear smooth and flawless, enhancing their value and desirability.
Overtone: In addition to the primary luster, freshwater pearls may also exhibit secondary hues or overtones that contribute to their overall appearance. These subtle color reflections can enhance the pearl's luster and give it a unique character.
How Much Is A Freshwater Pearl Worth
Determining the value of a freshwater pearl can be complex and depends on several factors including its size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, and overall condition. Additionally, market demand, the reputation of the seller, and any accompanying certifications or appraisals can also influence the price of a freshwater pearl.
Given the variability of factors influencing the value of freshwater pearls, it's essential to consult with reputable jewelers, gemologists, or appraisers for an accurate assessment. Additionally, purchasing pearls from trusted sources with transparent pricing and quality guarantees can help ensure you're getting a fair price for your investment.
Feliz pearl as a professional freswater pearl wholesaler, we are not only trying to wholesale genuine freshwater pearls but also dedicated in freshwater pearl education. Please subsribe us to get the latest news about the freshwater pearls.