I have always been fascinated by pearls, and I have been using them in Ginger Tail jewellery for many years. Pearls have been experiencing a true renaissance in the fashion world for some time now. Irregularly shaped “baroque” pearls, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular, as they are perfect for adding character to a wide variety of styles.

Pearls are among the few gemstones used in jewellery that do not naturally form within the earth - they are created by a living organism. Even more fascinating is the fact that a pearl does not form because a mollusc is trying to create something beautiful. The formation of layers of nacre is actually part of its biological response to an irritant or tissue damage.

How does a pearl form?

A natural pearl forms when an irritant enters the tissue of a mollusc or when its tissue is damaged. The mantle tissue forms a pearl sac around it, whose cells begin to secrete nacre. Over time, layer upon layer of nacre builds up, eventually forming a pearl.

Today, naturally occurring pearls are rare and expensive. More commonly used are cultured pearls, where the process is deliberately initiated by humans. Depending on the type of pearl, a small piece of mantle tissue is inserted into the mollusc, while saltwater pearls are usually cultured using a specially prepared round nucleus made from another shell.

From that point on, the mollusc itself forms the pearl. Humans begin the process, and nature completes it.

The shape, surface, colour and lustre of a natural pearl cannot be fully controlled, unlike those of artificially manufactured imitations. This is why small surface irregularities are not necessarily imperfections - they can actually be signs of natural growth.

When evaluating a pearl, its shape is only one of several important characteristics. We also consider its lustre, surface, colour, size and the quality of the nacre. In a pearl necklace, the way individual pearls complement and match one another is equally important.

The most expensive natural pearl ever sold belonged to Marie Antoinette and was valued at 36 million Swiss francs. One of the most famous pearls of all time is the 50.6-carat “La Peregrina”. It was once owned by Spanish royalty, Napoleon Bonaparte’s family and members of the British aristocracy. It was later given to Elizabeth Taylor and, after her death, sold at auction for US$11.8 million.

What don’t pearls like?

Perfume, hairspray, cosmetics, harsh cleaning products and prolonged contact with perspiration.

Pearls are delicate - their surface can be damaged by acids, chemicals and scratching.

A useful rule to remember is: “Put them on last, take them off first.” After removing your pearls, gently wipe them with a soft, slightly damp cloth.

Do not store pearls next to other jewellery, as harder gemstones and metals may scratch their surface.

Pearls also do not like being kept shut away in boxes for long periods of time, so if you haven’t worn them for a while, occasionally let them “breathe”.

Pearls are meant to be worn. They are not as hard as diamonds, for example - they are organic gemstones and therefore need to be treated with a little more care.

When properly cared for, pearls can be passed down from generation to generation. Each one is special and unique.

Do you love pearls? How do you wear yours? Or perhaps you are still dreaming of your first piece of pearl jewellery?

If pearls haven’t yet become part of your personal style, I invite you to discover these extraordinary gemstones in Ginger Tail jewellery. I’m sure they will bring you plenty of compliments.

Until next week,

Laura