Buying pearl jewelry? Pearls can come in a variety or shapes and colors. Take a minute to learn more their unique attributes.
Mastoloni
Mastoloni uses only the finest quality pearls in each of their beautifully designed jewelry. Their remarkable selection of Akoya, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls are known throughout the world for their beautiful color, luster, and quality.
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Luster
Pearls all have a deep inner glow and beautiful shine, which is known as luster. This effect is produced from light reflecting off abundant layers of calcium carbonate crystals, also known as nacre. The higher a pearl's luster, the more valuable it is.
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Size
Most pearls are measured by diameter in millimeter (mm) sizes. The size of the pearl generally depends on the type. The average ranges for the different pearl types are as follows: Akoya -- 2 to 10mm, Tahitian -- 8 to 16mm, South Sea -- 8 to 18mm, Keshi -- 1 to 10mm, Mabe -- 12 to 25mm.
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Shape
Pearls are divided into five shape categories, round being the traditional favorite.
Shape is determined mainly by the nucleus form that the pearl is structured around.
- Round: Symmetrically shaped spheres -- the most traditional, popular, and rarest shape.
- Semi-round: Spherical form with slight variations.
- Baroque: Irregularly shaped
- Semi-baroque: Drop, button, oval, pear shaped -- partially symmetrical.
- Circular: Irregularities on the upper third of the pearl such as streaks, ridges, or rings -- mainly Tahitian and South Sea varieties.
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Color
Pearls come in almost any color and shade -- from opaline white to anthracite black. The most common pearl colors are white, cream, yellow, pink, and black. Pearls can also have subtle secondary colors and overtones that add richness and variety.
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Surface Markings
During formation, blemishes such as bubbles and spots can appear when nacre does not adhere smoothly to the surface of the pearl, which is completely normal. The most rare and sought-after pearls have few imperfections and high-quality smoothness.
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Pearl Care
Pearl care, when done properly, is simple and can make them last a lifetime. Due to the natural body oils in the skin, wearing pearls as often as possible is a great way to keep their lustrous look.
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