The pearl is the oldest known gem, and for centuries was considered the most valuable. The majority of pearls now are cultured, in which an irritant is inserted into the mussel or oyster, triggering a substance called
nacre to be secreted around it, which eventually forms the pearl.
The most common types of pearl that our jewellers use are:
Mabe Pearls: A blister pearl, where a half-bead nucleus is glued against the inside of the shell, prompting nacre to be secreted over the bead. When formed, the blister is cut from the shell and the bead removed. The remaining cavity is then filled and covered with a mother-of-pearl backing.
Mother of Pearl: The smooth, hard pearly lining on the interior of a mollusk shell.
Tahitian Pearls: A dark coloured pearl from the black-lipped oyster. Only naturally coloured black pearls, as opposed to dyed ones, can be called Tahitian Black Pearls.
The best way to clean pearls, is to just wipe with a damp soft cloth. If there is a lot of dirt to be removed, then they can be gently washed in water with mild soap. It is important to note that pearl jewellery should be removed before applying cosmetics, hairsprays or perfumes, to prevent any surface reactions.
