| Chinese freshwater pearls come naturally in white, pink, peach and lavender (plum). Other colors freshwater pearl colors such as gold, Tahitian-like "black" orange, etc. are enhanced or dyed.The thickness of the nacre (secreted by the oyster around the implanted shell bead) is a key measure of quality in saltwater pearls. Freshwater pearls are composed of 100% nacre.Certain cultured Chinese freshwater pearls are indistinguishable from natural pearls even using sophisticated lab techniques.Chinese freshwater pearls can be a tenth the cost of an equivalent quality saltwater pearl.The pearl is the birthstone for those born in June. It is also the birthstone for the sun signs of Gemini and Cancer. Freshwater pearls are traditionally given on the first wedding anniversary and pearls are also often given on the 3rd, 12th and 30th anniversaries as well. |
