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Frequently AskedQuestions
Explore this comprehensive section to unlock everything you need to know about our exquisite jewelry collection. From details about materials used and care instructions to guidance on choosing the perfect piece and information about customization options, our FAQ is your go-to resource for making informed decisions and ensuring your jewelry selection is as exceptional as you are.
What are South Sea pearls?
South Sea pearls are the largest type of cultured pearls, typically ranging in size from 8mm to 16mm in diameter. They are cultured in saltwater oysters, specifically the Pinctada maxima oyster, native to marine waters between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. These pearls are known for their luxurious quality, with the silver-lipped oyster producing white pearls with silver, pink, or blue overtones, while the gold-lipped oyster produces naturally golden pearls with varying shades of yellow and orange. South Sea pearls are highly valued for their size, luster, and scarcity, with characteristics like nacre thickness, size, and luster setting them apart from other types of pearls.
Where are South Sea pearls harvested?
South Sea pearls are harvested in different locations, mainly in the southern hemisphere, including northern Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Burma, and French Polynesia. In our case, our pearls are harvested in Lombok, located east of Bali.
What makes South Sea pearls unique compared to other types of pearls?
What sets South Sea pearls apart from other types of pearls is their remarkable size, exquisite luster, and luxurious beauty. Cultivated primarily in the warm, nutrient-rich waters of the South Seas, South Sea pearls are among the largest pearls available, ranging from 9mm to 20mm or more in diameter. They possess a soft, satiny glow that emanates from within, giving them a luminous and radiant appearance. Additionally, South Sea pearls come in a variety of stunning colors, including white, golden, silver, and pink, each offering its own unique charm and appeal. Their rarity, coupled with their exceptional quality and beauty, makes South Sea pearls highly coveted and prized in the world of fine jewelry.
How can I distinguish between authentic South Sea pearls and imitations?
Surface Examination: Real pearls have a slightly gritty surface, while imitation pearls are typically smooth and shiny.
Shape Assessment: Authentic pearls are rarely perfectly round and may feature slight imperfections. Imitation pearls, on the other hand, tend to be more uniform in shape and size.
Nacre Thickness: South Sea pearls are known for their thicker nacre, which can range from 2-4mm
Color: Real pearls are rarely uniform in color. White pearls may have pink, yellow, or blue shades, while dark pearls may have flashes of green, purple, and navy blue. If you notice a different color around the hole, it is most likely that pearl is not real.
Unique Luster: In real pearls, the luster is alive, thanks to slightly visible transparent layers, it looks like it is coming out of the depth and naturally reflects light. In the case of imitation, the luster is slightly muffled, shallow and dark.
Thickness of Mother-of-Pearl: This feature can only be examined by using X-rays.
Weight: Real pearls are heavy, their weight is like glass or marble
Temperature: Real pearls are cold, and they change temperature while wearing
Elasticity: Real pearls are elastic, after throwing them on a flat surface, they bounce up to half of height. In contrast, plastic pearls bounce higher and glass pearls lower.
Boiling Water Test: The authenticity of the pearl can also be checked by soaking in boiling water, when the real pearl comes out unscathed, and the imitation is damaged.
What are the different types of South Sea pearls available?
- White South Sea Pearls
- Golden South Sea Pearls
- Black South Sea Pearls
- Silver South Sea Pearls
- Pink South Sea Pearls
What factors affect the value of South Sea pearls?
Size: South Sea pearls are known for their large size, which is a result of the prolonged gestation period of the oysters. The larger the pearl, the more valuable it is.
Luster: The luster of a South Sea pearl is a key factor in its value. The higher the luster, the more valuable the pearl. This is due to the extensive nacre that South Sea pearls develop, which creates a luminous and radiant gem.
Shape: The shape of a pearl is also a significant factor in its value. Spherical pearls are the most valuable, and any deviation from this perfect roundness places a pearl in the baroque category, which encompasses a variety of non-spherical forms. Only a small percentage of pearls achieve the coveted spherical shape, making it a primary determinant of value.
Color: The color of a South Sea pearl plays a pivotal role in its value. The color is composed of two tones: the inner color and the outer overlaying hue. To attain a high-grade classification, the pearl’s color must exhibit uniformity across its entire surface.
Surface Quality: The surface quality of a pearl is another key factor in its overall assessment. While minor imperfections can exist even in the most valuable pearls, discerning buyers often seek pearls with surfaces that are as close to perfection as possible. A high-value pearl should be free from pits, wrinkles, or cracks, ensuring an unblemished surface.
Scarcity: The scarcity of South Sea pearls is a significant factor in their value. The limited geographic presence of the oyster beds and the challenges in establishing new ones contribute to their rarity, which drives up their value.
Rarity of Color: South Sea Gold pearls have a large price range due to the rarity of each color. The darker the shade of gold, the rarer and more special the pearl. The darkest gold pearls in the world come from the Philippines, which is the only source of gold pearls.
How do I care for South Sea pearls to maintain their luster and quality?
To maintain the luster and quality of South Sea pearls, it’s essential to follow a few simple guidelines for storage, cleaning, and wear. Here are some tips to help you care for your South Sea pearls:
Storage
- Store South Sea pearls separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches and damage.
- Keep them in a soft pouch, wrapped in velvet, tissue, or silk to prevent damage from contact with other jewelry.
- Store longer pieces, such as necklaces, flat to prevent tangling, bunching, and twisting.
- Avoid hanging them, as this can cause them to stretch.
Cleaning
- Clean your pearls with water only when regular polishing no longer produces the desired result.
- Avoid excessive cleaning, as this can cause the jewelry to be worn prematurely.
- Use a soft cloth, such as a pearl cleaning cloth or a chamois, to wipe your pearls clean after each use. 4. If your pearls are very dirty, you can have them professionally cleaned by a jeweler.
- Avoid using other types of jewelry cleaners or soap, as some can damage pearls.
Precautions
- Avoid exposing South Sea pearls to heat, chemicals, and direct sunlight, as these can cause discoloration and damage to the surface of the pearl.
- Limit contact with chemicals from beauty products, such as hairspray, imitation tan, and perfume, as these can erode the surface of the pearl and cause discoloration.
- Avoid contact with sharp or abrasive surfaces, as these can scratch or dull your pearls.
- Take particular care with rings and bracelets, as these are more at risk of coming into contact with harmful chemicals and rough surfaces.
- Wipe your pearls gently after every use to remove any acidic residue from skin, perspiration, or cosmetics.
- Store your pearls in a jewelry pouch and keep them away from other jewelry that could scratch their surface.
- Consider using a drop of olive oil on the cloth to help maintain their luster.
Additional Tips
- Show your pearls some love by wearing them regularly, as they need moisture to maintain their luster and structural integrity.
- Avoid storing your pearls in plastic or dry environments, as these can dry out the pearls.
- Consider having your pearls inspected and cleaned by a professional jeweler every few years.
- Have your pearl strands re-strung every few years, depending on how often they are worn.
What sizes of South Sea pearls are available for purchase?
South Sea pearls are available in a range of sizes, from 8 mm to 20 mm, with an average size of 10-15 mm.
Are South Sea pearls suitable for everyday wear, or are they more for special occasions?
South Sea pearls are suitable for everyday wear, but they do require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. While they are more delicate than other gemstones, with the right precautions, they can be worn frequently without compromising their quality.
Can I customize jewelry with South Sea pearls, and if so, what options are available?
Yes, you can customize jewelry with South Sea pearls. The versatility of South Sea pearls makes them a perfect accessory for any occasion, and they can be worn for every occasion. The range of colors and luster available in South Sea pearls allows for a wide variety of customization options.
Customization Options
Color: South Sea pearls are available in a range of colors, including soft white, honey gold, and even bronze and green overtones, although these are rarer.
Size: South Sea pearls can be found in sizes ranging from 8 mm to 20 mm, with the largest being highly prized for their size and luster.
Shape: While South Sea pearls are often associated with round shapes, they can also be found in baroque shapes, which are unique and playful.
Setting: South Sea pearls can be set in a variety of metals, including gold, silver, and platinum, and can be paired with diamonds, other gemstones, or left as a standalone piece.
Design: The design of the jewelry piece is also up to your preference. You can choose from a variety of styles, from classic and elegant to modern and playful.