Types of Pearls

Freshwater Edison Pearls:

Each Freshwater Edison pearl is a magnificent creation of nature, possessing its own distinct characteristics and captivating beauty. These pearls are formed within freshwater mussels and are highly sought after for their lustrous appeal and vibrant colors. What sets them apart from other pearls is their exceptional uniqueness.

 

Tahitian Pearls:

Tahitian pearls are formed by a species of oyster, called the black-lipped oyster, which is native to the waters of French Polynesia, particularly Tahiti. What makes Tahitian pearls distinctive is their natural color range, which includes shades of black, gray, green, blue, and even peacock hues. These colors are a result of the black-lipped oyster's genetics and the unique mix of minerals and nutrients in the surrounding waters. Each pearl has its own individual characteristics, giving it a one-of-a-kind appearance, and are highly sought after in the world of jewelry due to their rarity and beauty.

 

South Sea Pearls:

South Sea Pearls are produced by the silver-lipped and gold-lipped oysters found in the waters of the South Pacific, primarily in Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. What sets South Sea pearls apart is their exceptional size, which can range from 9 to 20 millimeters or even larger - resulting from the larger size of the oysters that produce them. In addition, South Sea pearls are known for their beautiful natural colors, which can vary from creamy white to golden and even deeper shades of champagne and silver. The allure of South Sea pearls lies in their elegance, sophistication, and the radiant glow they bring to any piece of jewelry they adorn.

 

Keshi Pearls: 

Keshi pearls are unique and captivating pearls that are formed as a byproduct of the culturing process used to produce other types of pearls. Unlike traditional cultured pearls, Keshi pearls are composed entirely of nacre, without a bead or nucleus at their core. They can display a wide range of colors, lusters, and sizes and their color is influenced by the species of oyster that produced them and the conditions in which they were grown. Keshi pearls are cherished for their luster, which can be exceptionally bright and captivating due to the absence of a bead. Overall, Keshi pearls offer a special charm and allure, representing nature's unexpected gifts within the world of pearls.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

When you admire the photos showcasing these mesmerizing pearls, it's essential to remember that each one is truly one-of-a-kind. While they serve as a representation of the pearls' general appearance, they cannot fully capture the individuality and nuanced beauty of each pearl. 

So, when you acquire a piece of jewelry featuring any of these pearls, you can be assured that you are receiving a distinctive and exceptional creation, unlike any other. The allure of these pearls lies in their ability to embrace the diversity of nature and offer a truly personalized and unforgettable experience for those fortunate enough to possess them! 

 

The Grading Scale

Pearls are graded on  

Shape: Each pearl has its own distinct shape. These natural variations in shape contribute to the pearl's character and charm. The common types of shapes are:

Round: Perfectly spherical and symmetrical, exhibiting a harmonious and balanced appearance.

Near-Round: Slightly off-round but still maintain a mostly spherical shape.

Oval: An elongated shape with rounded ends. They can range from a slightly stretched round shape to a more pronounced elongation.

Button: Flattened on one side and round on the other, often a shape that resembles a button. 

Drop or Teardrop: Pear or tear-shaped form, characterized by a rounded bottom and a pointed top.

Baroque: Freeform, with unique and unpredictable contours.

Semi-Baroque: Some freeform, but with a more defined structure compared to fully baroque pearls.

Size: Pearls come in a variety of sizes, with diameters ranging from a few millimeters to greater dimensions. The size of a pearl greatly influences its presence and impact within a piece of jewelry.

Color: Pearls exhibit a captivating range of colors, from traditional white and cream tones to delicate pastels, vibrant pinks, purples, and even metallic hues. The coloration of each pearl is a product of its environment and the unique genetic makeup of the organism.

Luster and Surface: The luster of a pearl refers to its reflective quality and how light interacts with its surface. Each pearl possesses its own distinctive luster, which can range from a soft glow to a mirror-like shine. The surface of the pearl can also display variations, including natural inclusions, texture, or iridescent qualities that make it truly one-of-a-kind.

 

At A Rising Tide - He Kai Pi’i, we offer a range of exquisite pearls, exclusively graded as AAAA, AAA, AA, & A, from waters around the world. Our commitment is to excellence and utilizing the highest quality pearls in our pieces.