 Cultured
Pearls
Pearls are known as gifts from the sea. They are each
uniquely different and yet can be matched for a beautiful
strand of pearls. They are lovely on any skin tone and also
have tones of their own - from pink to gold and green and of
course the black - Tahitian pearls.
They are rare in the sense that they can only be grown
in limited areas of the world's oceans and take years to
grow. A perfect pair is very rare as nature makes few pearls
exactly alike in orient, size, shape and color.
A cultured pearl is a pearl that was formed by an
oyster, composed of concentric layers of crystalline
substance called nacre deposited around an irritant place in
the oyster's body by man.
When choosing a pearl necklace it is important to
consider its effect on your appearance and personality. Long
necklaces are slinky and sexy. Short necklaces can be demure
or sophisticated. Dog collars enhance a long neck. Longer
strands slenderize and appear to elongate the neck
Guide to length of strands and terminology:
Choker 14" to 15" in length. Should nestle around the
base of the neck.
Princess 18" in length. Halfway between choker and
matinee length.
Matinee 22" to 23" in length. Should fall to the top of
the cleavage.
Opera 30" to 36" in length. Should fall to the
breastbone.
Sautoir or rope any pearl necklace longer than opera
length.
Dog Collar Multiple strands of pearls fitting closely
around the neck.
Cultured pearl care:
With a little care, pearls can last a lifetime and be
passed down from generation to generation. When you store
them, keep them separate from other jewelry. A little cloth
pouch is an excellent idea. They should be cleaned only with
warm mild soap and water to remove traces of perfume,
cosmetics or hair spray.
Try to put your pearls on after you have applied perfume
or hairspray.
If you wear your pearl necklace frequently, be sure to
have them restrung every year or so. The silk that pearls
are strung on does deteriorate with wear.
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