Lustre
The distinctive characteristic, or great beauty of a true pearl (natural and cultivated) is its lustre (or orient). Lustre is a subdued iridescence, as opposed to the glittering brilliance of the diamond, and is the most important consideration when selecting a pearl. Lustre should be bright - never dull. Without lustre it does not rank as a gem pearl, no matter how perfect its form or beautiful its colour. Because South Sea pearls have a thick creamy nacre, they are noted for their rich silky lustre, and are thus valued most highly.
Surface
A pearl may range from being flawless (100% clean surface) through to possessing varying degrees of characteristic marks. The more flawless the pearl the rarer and, therefore, more valuable it is.
Size
Japanese south sea pearls range in size from 3mm to around 9mm. Larger pearls, 14mm and over, are highly prized and valuable. The recent discovery of unusually large and perfect cultivated South Sea pearls has renewed the gem world's fascination with pearls. Strands of these magnificent giant pearls are unique treasures of our age, the likes of which have never been seen before by the human eye.
Shape
Janapese south sea pearls are available in variety of shapes. Perfectly round pearls and perfect teardrops are extremely rare and are therefore highly prized. This does not mean however, that other shapes do not have their own unique charm and value. Because of the thickness of South Sea pearl nacre, pearls are found in an array of sizes and shapes, including round, semi-round, button, circle, oval, drop, semi-baroque and baroque.
Colour
From luminescent whites to sparkling golds, the stunning rangeof natural colours of south sea pearls must be seen to be believed. While colour is not normallyan indicator of the quality of south sea pearls,premium prices are fetched for pearls displaying unusually beautiful orients of coloured overtones such as white pink, silver pink and deep gold.
Quality pearls are very durable, but proper care is necessary to keep them beautiful and lustrous. Here are important tips to care for your pearls.
Gently wipe pearls with a soft cloth to remove body oils or dirt before putting them away.
Pearls should be stored away from other objects or jewelry that may scratch the pearls’ surface. Wrap the pearls in linen, soft cloth, or place in a soft pouch. Do NOT store pearls in an airtight package such as a plastic bag because pearls need moisture. If the environment is too dry, the pearls may crack. If placing the pearls in a safety deposit box or in a hot environment, leave a damp cloth nearby.
Keep pearls away from chlorine bleach, vinegar, ammonia, hairspray, perfume, and cosmetics, as these substances will damage the pearl surface. Make sure to put pearls on after finished spraying perfume or hairspray and putting on makeup. Also, remove pearls before exercising to keep them away from perspiration. Be very careful with substances as they will eat holes in the pearl nacre.
Restring pearls once a year if worn often. Be sure to have each pearl knotted separately, preferably with silk, so they do not rub together and wear on the pearl nacre. If pearls are very small, knots between each pearl may be undesirable.
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