The layering of nacreous mother-of-pearl

Unusual shaped pearls are now capturing the attention of a greater number of pearl shoppers. And with good reason. For many the baroque and organic shapes have more personality and allure than their more perfect siblings. Their beauty is revealed in their imperfections which bear witness to the watery wombs from whence they come. The curves, colors and blemishes reveal the acts of natural creation that give rise to each pearl.

Like snowflakes and fingerprints no two pearls are alike. But while a strand of round Tahitian pearls well matched for color can mask this fact, a multicolor strand of baroque circlets celebrates it. At a fraction of the cost.

Shape, then, is the one word you need to know to get a truly great deal on Tahitian Black pearls. If you're shopping ask your pearl broker to show you some unusual shapes. You might find these cheaper, often neglected pearls are as satisfying as the once lowly chicken wing.

The layering of nacreous mother-of-pearl Crystal Jewelry in a Mabe pearl is quite different to the concentric layers found within a pearl. Although in the strictest sense, a composite cultured blister pearl may not fulfil the requirements for the definition of a pearl, the industry uses the term "Mabe pearl" widely.

Mabe pearls can be found in diverse colours such as white, grey, black, or silver, cream and brown and may have overtones of green or violet. To a great extent, the colour will depend on the mollusc that is used to make the Mabe pearl. Another attraction of Mabe lies in that they are relatively inexpensive pearls for their large size. The shape of a Mabe pearl can also vary widely with round, drop and even heart shapes being produced.

The diversity of colour and shape contributes to the desirability of Mabe pearls as they can be used for imaginative pieces of jewellery.

Winterson specialises in classic and contemporary luxury pearl jewellery. Based in London, UK, we have a successful family history and expertise of working with pearls for over 50 years. Explore the unique diversity of colours and shapes of cultured pearls. If you choose to re-publish this article please give credit where credit is due.Silver Jewelry