A Guide to Different Types of Pearls
Pearls have captivated the world for centuries with their timeless elegance and
natural beauty. These mesmerizing and beloved gems of the sea come in various
shapes and sizes, each with unique characteristics that make them suitable for
different tastes and occasions. Whether you seek classic sophistication, modern
chic, or a touch of drama, there's a perfect pearl for you.
In our unique, limited-edition Two Girls & an Island pearl collection, crafted as a
collaboration with artist Katherine Downey Miller, you’ll find pearl necklaces, pearl
earrings, and pearl bracelets. This collection, which features a stunning
combination of freshwater baroque, freshwater round, Tahitian, and Pacific
Ocean Akoya pearls, beautifully showcases the unique and timeless appeal of
pearls.
1. Freshwater Baroque Pearls
Freshwater baroque pearls, found in lakes and rivers, are abundant and make up
over 90% of freshwater pearls. They have an irregular, non-spherical shape and
come in a variety sizes, and colors. Their unique sheen makes them a popular
choice for jewelry.
At Paris & Lily, we incorporate baroque pearls into several pieces, including:
Midnight Moon Baroque Pearl Necklace
Island Beauty Baroque Pearl Earrings with Diamonds
Sun Bath Baroque Pearl & Diamond Pendant Necklace
Sea Sparkle Baroque Pearl & Diamond Pendant Necklace
Empress Nantucket Lightship Basket Necklace with a Baroque Pearl Pendant
2. Freshwater Pearls (Near Round)
Perfectly round freshwater pearls are exceptionally rare. More commonly, these
pearls are off-round, oval, or potato-shaped. They come in various sizes and are
celebrated for their soft, satiny luster and exquisite natural hues, including white,
pink, peach, and lavender.
At Paris & Lily, we carry several styles of freshwater near round pearl earrings
and necklaces.
3. Saltwater Tahitian Pearls
Tahitian pearls are highly valued for their rarity and beauty. Sourced from black-
lipped oysters in the warmer waters of French Polynesia, East Australia,
Panama, and Mexico, these pearls come in colors from black to gray, with hints
of green, blue, and purple. They are typically larger than other pearls, ranging
from 8mm to 18mm, and are often perfectly spherical, making them ideal for
stunning, investment-worthy jewelry.
At Paris & Lily, we use saltwater Tahitian pearls in our
Mid Summer Black Pearl and Diamond Wire Earrings.
4. Saltwater Pacific Ocean Akoya Pearls
Akoya pearls, formed in the Pinctada Fucata oyster (also known as the Akoya
oyster), were the original must-have accessory for debutantes and socialites in
the 1920’s. These pearls lived on during WWII as soldiers would bring back
strands of Akoya pearls for their wives and girlfriends as a symbol of their love.
Today, Akoya pearls are a beloved jewel for women and men of all ages.
Renowned for their perfectly round shape, high luster, and clean, smooth
complexions, Akoya pearls are classic white in color, often with a slight pink or
silver overtone and typically range in size from 2mm to 10mm.
We include long-beloved Akoya pearls in our Pave Diamond Pearl Ring, Pearl
Diamond Halo Ring, and our Pretty as a Pearl 1” Nantucket Lightship Basket
Cuff.
Caring for Your Pearl Jewelry
Regardless of the type of pearls you choose, proper care of your pearl jewelry is
essential to maintain its beauty and luster. Here are some tips for caring for your
pearl jewelry:
perfumes, and cosmetics. You should put pearls on only after your perfume has dried.
Avoid Water: Though they come from water, pearls should not get wet! Even body sweat can cause their luster to diminish. No showering, swimming, or sweating if you can prevent it.
Store Properly: Store pearls in a soft pouch or a separate compartment in your jewelry box to prevent scratches. Anything rubbing against them over time can cause scratches.
Wear Often: Pearls benefit from the natural oils in your skin, which help maintain their luster.
Clean Gently: Wipe your pearls with a fine soft cloth after wearing to remove any traces of oil, sweat, or dirt.