When focusing on pearls, there are two types: freshwater pearls and marine pearls. Freshwater pearls are usually found in lakes, rivers, and ponds, while marine pearls come from oysters that live in saltwater environments such as the ocean. Both freshwater and marine pearls have their own unique characteristics and benefits, so it can be difficult to decide which type is right for you. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about freshwater and saltwater pearls! We will look at the differences in formation and characteristics, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each type.
So where do pearls come from?
Both freshwater and marine pearls come from mollusks, creatures that have a soft body, a hard shell, and no backbone. There are many different types of molluscs, but the two main groups that produce pearls are freshwater mussels and sea oysters. Freshwater mussels are found in lakes, rivers, and ponds, while sea oysters live in saltwater environments such as the ocean.
Freshwater pearls:
Freshwater pearls are usually smaller than marine pearls and come in a wider variety of shapes and colors. They are also less expensive than sea pearls, making them a popular choice for everyday jewelry. Freshwater pearls are grown in freshwater shells, so they are not as durable as marine pearls and should not be worn in the shower or while swimming in a pool.
Where do freshwater pearls come from?
Freshwater pearls are formed inside freshwater mussels found in lakes, rivers and ponds. Most freshwater pearls are grown in China, but they can also be found in the United States, Japan, and other parts of Asia.
Types of Freshwater Pearls
There are many different types of freshwater pearls, such as cultured freshwater pearls or freshwater pearls. There are many forms of freshwater pearls that can come. The most popular freshwater pearls are round pearls. However, you can also find freshwater pearls in an assortment of other shapes, e.g. baroque freshwater pearls, semi-round freshwater pearls, coin freshwater pearls, oval freshwater pearls.
What are the differences between cultured freshwater pearls and natural freshwater pearls?
The two main types of freshwater pearls are cultured freshwater pearls and natural freshwater pearls.
Cultured freshwater pearls are created in pearl farms, while natural freshwater pearls are found in the wild.
Cultured freshwater pearls have a wider variety of shapes and colors than natural freshwater pearls. They are cheaper than natural freshwater pearls.
Natural freshwater pearls are rarer and more valuable than cultured freshwater pearls, and natural freshwater pearls are also more durable than cultured freshwater pearls.
How much are freshwater pearls?
reshwater pearls are cheaper than marine pearls, with the average price for a freshwater pearl necklace being around $60-$100. However, natural freshwater pearls are rarer and more valuable than cultured freshwater pearls, so you can expect to pay a higher price for one. The most expensive freshwater pearl ever sold was a 26-carat pearl necklace that sold for $357,000. Their advantages are that they come in a wider variety of shapes and colors, are cheaper than sea pearls, and can be worn every day.
The disadvantages are that they are not as durable as sea pearls and should not be worn while showering or swimming.
Saltwater Pearls:
Salt water pearls are larger than freshwater pearls and come in a narrower range of shapes and colors. They are more expensive than freshwater pearls, but they are also more durable and can be worn in the shower or while swimming.
Where do saltwater pearls come from? Sea pearls come from oysters that live in saltwater environments such as the ocean. They are usually larger than freshwater pearls and come in a narrower range of shapes and colors. Marine pearls are farmed and most of the world's supply comes from Japan, China and Australia.
Types of Saltwater Pearls: There are three main types of saltwater pearls. Akoya pearls are the most common type of sea pearl and come from the Akoya oyster. South sea pearls are the largest type of sea pearl and come from South Sea oysters. Tahitian pearls are the rarest type of sea pearl and come from the black oyster in French Polynesia.
Cultured salt water pearls versus natural sea pearls. Marine pearls can be divided into two categories: cultured marine pearls and natural marine pearls.
Cultured sea pearls are created in pearl farms, while natural sea pearls are found in the wild. Cultured sea pearls have a wider range of shapes and colors than natural sea pearls. Cultured sea pearls are more expensive than natural sea pearls.
Natural saltwater pearls are rarer and more valuable than cultured sea saltwater pearls. Natural saltwater pearls are more durable than cultured sea pearls and can be worn in the shower and while swimming. How much are sea pearls?
Saltwater pearls are much more expensive than freshwater pearls, with the average price of a marine pearl necklace hovering around $300. However, the most expensive saltwater pearl ever sold was a black pearl that sold for $100,000.
All the advantages and disadvantages of freshwater and saltwater pearls and the differences between freshwater and saltwater pearls are summarized here.
The main difference is in the environment where they arise. Freshwater pearls are created inside freshwater mussels, while marine pearls come from oysters that live in saltwater environments. Another major difference is the price. Saltwater pearls tend to be more expensive than freshwater pearls because they are more difficult to grow. However, freshwater pearls are not as durable as sea pearls, so they may not be a good choice for everyday wear.
How to tell the difference between freshwater and marine pearls?
It is difficult to tell the difference between freshwater and saltwater pearls just by looking at them. Sea pearls can be larger and rounder in shape. The gloss can be more pronounced in some species. Another way to tell the difference is by price. Freshwater pearl necklaces are generally cheaper than marine pearl necklaces.
The easiest way to tell the difference between freshwater and marine pearls is their color. Freshwater pearls are typically white, off-white, or cream in color, while marine pearls come in a variety of colors including blue, green, black, and pink. You can also tell the difference by their shape. Freshwater pearls are usually round or oval in shape, while marine pearls come in a variety of shapes including round, baroque and teardrop.
So, what's your verdict? Are freshwater or marine pearls right for you? Both types of pearls have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and the meaning you want to convey. If you are looking for a versatile pearl that can be styled in a variety of ways, then freshwater pearls are probably the best choice for you. However, if you are looking for a more luxurious and exotic pearl, then marine pearls may be a better choice.
At Still life, you can find freshwater pearls, both natural and cultured, from several parts of South Asia, from Hong Kong and from the island of Lombok, not far from the island of Bali.
No matter what type of pearl you choose, make sure you take proper care of your pearls and style them well.
