Pearls are one of the most beautiful and lasting gems that exist on this planet. Despite the simplicity, they have their own distinct beauty that can truly captivate the attention of any individual who knows how to appreciate a genuine gemstone. Whatever their color, shape or size, pearls have a timeless quality that they are worth to be passed on from one generation to another. Owning them is a real treasure.



Origin

Of the many variety of pearls that are available today worldwide, the freshwater pearls remain one of the most popular and well loved by women. They are referred to as such because they literally come from freshwater mussels found in lakes and rivers. Since their first cultivation in Japan's Lake Biwa, these freshwater pearls have spread in other parts of the world.

China is now the biggest and sole commercial producer of freshwater pearls with most of the pearl farming being done outside of Shanghai. In 2005 alone, the country produced some 1,500 tons of these precious gems. The state of Tennessee in the U.S. also holds the title of having the only freshwater pearl farm outside of Asia. The farm which was started by the late John Latendresse has become a popular tourist spot there.

Characteristics

Most people think only of the pearl as having this white color. The truth, however, is that it comes in different shades other than what it's popularly known for. Its body colors range from white, cream, gold, yellow, peach, pink, orange, lavender, purple, gray, bronze and black. Did you know that some pearls even two colors? Some may even have a combination of rose and green color. In freshwater pearls, the color does not necessarily affect the price unlike that of saltwater pearls.

As for its size, this type of pearl range from 4 mm to 11 mm. These freshwater pearls are not perfect round in shape but are rather oval, button and coin shaped. These general oval shapes make them less expensive compared to the other varieties hence, their popularity. The larger freshwater pearls, though, are considered to be more valuable as it normally takes more time for them to form.

Freshwater pearls not only have different colors, shapes and sizes. They, too, differ in nacre, luster and surfaces. Their luster may not be that rich but they possess their own unique sheen. Luster refers to a pearl's brilliance which is the real source of its beauty. The stronger the luster or the more it reflects light, the higher is the value of the pearl.

Luster usually depends on the nacre which is the smoothness and thickness of the pearl. When choosing your pearls then, check each for cracks, chips or gaps on their surface as these can make them vulnerable to breaking.

Grading

Freshwater pearls may either be natural or cultured. They are graded based on a set of criteria to show their quality. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is one prestigious organization involved in grading gems around the world and issues a certificate of authenticity as a guarantee to consumers that they are buying quality gems and jewelry.

So by now, you know what you should be looking for when buying that freshwater pearl for personal use or for a gift to a loved one.