A string of matched pearls

Cultured pearls and natural pearls can be easily distinguished from imitation pearls by performing a very simple test. By rubbing the pearl against the edge of a tooth one can see that a cultured and natural pearl will feel slightly rough, like fine sandpaper, because of the texture of natural nacre. An imitation pearl remains smooth because the surface is molded or painted and is not affected by exterior materials.

Pearls are generally cultivated in areas that have the right water temperature, are clean and nutritious. The ultimate quality of the cultured pearl depends on a number of factors such as the acreage of pollution free water available and the area where the farms are located. Pearl farms are usually located in areas with active tides and less water pollution. The big tides feed the oyster a rich mixture of organic food thus affecting the pearl quality.

The abalone of Japan, California and some other Pacific regions are a good source of mother of pearl. Natural mother of pearl can be tinted to almost any desired color. It has many uses in architecture and modern ceramic tiles. In the good old days, most shirt buttons were made of mother of silver bracelets  but these are now mostly plastic. There are, however, a few fine quality clothing companies which still use mother of pearl shirt buttons. On fine instruments, such as saxophones and guitars, mother of pearl can be used for decoration or for the key touches.

A string of matched pearls has always been considered an appropriate adornment for a bride, but for those who can afford such a luxury, they can be everyday wear. I remember one elderly lady who wore hers everywhere, even while dressed casually at home! She informed me that the beauty of the pearls was maintained by the constant slightly oily polishing movement against her skin.

Pearls are frequently used in conjunction with gemstones and gold or sterling silver to make very beautiful jewelry - necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Although there may be imitation materials available, which can be made to look like mother of pearl, there is no substitute for the beauty of that created by nature.MORE:black tahitian pearl earring