Pearl

Symbol of modesty, chastity and purity.

People have coveted natural pearls as symbols of wealth and status for thousands of years. A Chinese historian recorded the oldest written mention of natural pearls in 2206 BCE. The spherical shape of some pearls led many cultures to associate this gem with the moon. In ancient China, pearls were believed to guarantee protection from fire and fire-breathing dragons. In
Europe, they symbolized modesty, chastity and purity. Color Pearl bodycolor varies by the type of mollusk it is formed in. Although white pearls are the most
traditional, other colors are very popular. The main bodycolor of a pearl is often modified by additional colors called overtones, which are typically pink,
green, purple or blue. Some pearls also show the iridescent phenomenon known as orient that adds to the overall color.

Formation
Pearls may form in any mollusk. Not all pearls are of the nacreous type commonly seen in jewelry. Conch, Melo and clam pearls are all examples of
non-nacreous pearls.

The GIA 7 Pearl Value Factors™
The qualities that determine the overall value of a natural or cultured pearl are size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, nacre quality and matching.

Sources
Akoya cultured pearls are grown in Japan and China. Leading sources of South Sea cultured pearls are Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines. Tahitian cultured pearls are primarily cultivated around the islands of French Polynesia. China and the United States are leading sources for freshwater cultured pearls.

Treatments
Pearls may be dyed, coated, bleached, filled or irradiated to either enhance
their luster or alter the pearl color. Dyed cultured pearls are usually detectable because they look artificial to the unaided eye. However, dyed pearls of lighter tones can be difficult to detect.

Major Sources
Australia, China, French Polynesia,
Gulf of Mannar, Indonesia, Japan,
Panama, Persian Gulf, Philippines,
United States, Venezuela

Mineral
Calcium Carbonate

Mohs Hardness
2.5 to 3

Toughness
Good

Color
White, cream, black, grey, silver, green,
blue, pink, yellow, orange

Birthstone
June

Care and Cleaning
The best rule of thumb is that pearls are the last thing you put on and first thing
you take off when getting dressed. For routine care, wipe pearls with a soft,
clean cloth after each wearing. Pearls should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic
or steam cleaner. It’s safe to use warm, soapy water for occasional, thorough
cleaning. It is also recommended that pearls not be stored in airtight areas for
prolonged periods of time.

Source: The Passion of Colored Gemstones by G.I.A.