Legends and myths be told, pearls are seen as tears of mermaids, as treasures fallen from the sky when dragons fought amongst the clouds, as raindrops swallowed by oysters. Whatever the origin of pearls is and whichever version you might believe, one thing is for sure: We are OBSESSED and for CENTURIES!

We previously talked about mother-of-pearls, now we, of course, have to walk through the more known and loved, PEARLS!

What are pearls?

For centuries across the world, we all loved this luxurious, lustrous gem - Pearls. As a timeless treasure, I can see how perfect pearls can be so sought out for. It is because they are natural; they have this mysterious and alluring glow not found in any other gems. They are the staple in your mother's jewelry box, your grandma's jewelry box, and definitely yours (if you are reading this piece right now)! It's never too late to get into Pearls.

Of course, now plastic pearls can look as round as you want them, as colorful as you want them, and as flawless as you want them. Yet, we still all crave expensive natural pearls. It is because scarcity, in many occasions, equals demand, and, in this case, beauty.

Man-made perfection isn't that scarce but nature's is. Luckily, nowadays, we have cultivated freshwater pearls that are the best-of-both worlds. They make near-perfect pearls more possible at a more affordable pricepoint.

Truth be told, I was never into pearls until recently. Growing up, I never really understood pearls. I thought it would never be my thing. But I was wrong. It was just not the time yet. Now I'm absolutely in love, head over heels, with this little white bead (or big).

So...do not ever underestimate the charm of her majesty, PEARLS.

Types of Pearls

Pearls are classified into five main categories based on their origin, shape, size, and color.

  • Oceanic Treasures: Saltwater pearls, born in the heart of the sea, are renowned for their lustrous beauty. From the classic Akoya to the exotic South Sea and Tahitian varieties, these pearls exude timeless elegance.

  • Freshwater Magic: Cultivated in the serene embrace of rivers and lakes, freshwater pearls offer a dazzling array of colors and shapes. These versatile gems are perfect for everyday wear and special occasions.

  • Nature's Masterpieces: Natural pearls, formed without human intervention, are rare and precious treasures. These unique gems are prized for their irregular shapes and natural beauty.

  • Cultured Elegance: A harmonious blend of nature and human craftsmanship, cultured pearls offer a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. These exquisite gems cater to diverse tastes and styles.

  • Baroque Brilliance: Irregular and captivating, baroque pearls celebrate individuality. These one-of-a-kind gems add a touch of bohemian charm to any ensemble.

Whether you're drawn to the classic saltwater pearls or the modern cultured gems, there is always the right option for you. At Stanza, we carefully pick sustainably sourced freshwater pearls for all of our pieces to make sure that you can enjoy the beauty of natural pearls at a much more affordable price.

Colors of Pearls

Pearls aren't just white!

They come in a spectrum of colors, each with its unique charm. From the classic white and cream, reminiscent of a moonlit beach, to the exotic black Tahitian pearl, evocative of a starlit night, there's a hue to suit every personality and style.

You'll also find pearls in delicate shades of pink, lavender, and even golden tones, offering a world of possibilities for self-expression.

Shapes of Pearl

Pearls come in a variety of shapes, each with its own unique charm. Here's a breakdown of the most common pearl shapes:

  • Round Pearls: The epitome of classic, round pearls are perfectly symmetrical and boast a high luster. Akoya pearls are renowned for their beautiful round shape.

  • Baroque Pearls: Embracing individuality, baroque pearls are known for their irregular and organic shapes. From oval to pear, these unique gems offer endless design possibilities.

  • Semi-Round Pearls: A balance between round and baroque, semi-round pearls offer a softer, more relaxed aesthetic. They often exhibit a desirable luster.

  • Button Pearls: Small and flat, button pearls are perfect for creating delicate and understated jewelry pieces. They are commonly used in necklaces and bracelets.

  • Drop pearls: They exude a sense of sophistication and elegance, making them a popular choice for jewelry designs.

  • Coin Pearls: Flat and circular, coin pearls resemble tiny coins. They add a touch of modern elegance to jewelry designs.

Based on usage, jewelers may choose different shapes of pearls. At Stanza, we use different shapes of pearls to find the right balance for every design.

Symbolism & Meanings

Pearls aren't just exquisite adornments; they're vessels of ancient wisdom and ethereal beauty. These ocean-born treasures symbolize purity, innocence, and a touch of moonlit magic. Imagine them as nature's lullabies, soothing your soul and inviting inner peace.

Some believe pearls are like guardian angels, shielding you from life's stormy seas. Others see them as symbols of transformation, a reminder that even the most humble beginnings can create extraordinary beauty. Whether you're drawn to their mystique or simply love their luster, pearls hold a special place in the heart and spirit.

Ready for some pearl MAGIC?

At Stanza, we always want to create something a little different for you. We've paired pearls with various gemstones, using different sizes, coming up with unique combinations, to bring out new sides of pearls that you have never seen before.

If you are into the most classic pearl necklace, which is also always my staple as well. We also have that here at Stanza!

Storage Tips

How to clean pearls?

With us picking the best looking pearls is not enough though. Proper care ensures your pearls maintain their luster and longevity.
  • Daily Care: Gently wipe your pearls with a soft, clean cloth after each wear to remove oils, perfumes, and other substances.

  • Cleaning Pearls: Use a damp cloth for routine cleaning. For more stubborn stains, create a mild solution of lukewarm water and dish soap. Gently wipe the pearls with a soft cloth, avoiding submersion.

  • Drying: Allow pearls to air dry completely before storing. This prevents damage to the silk thread.

  • Professional Care: Schedule an annual inspection and cleaning by a jeweler to maintain the integrity of your pearls and the silk thread.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the beauty of your pearls for years to come.

How to store pearls?

As soft as a summer breeze, they’re not the toughest gems in town. The luminous layer on pearls is very thin! To keep your pearl jewelry looking its best, treat it like the precious treasure it is. Store it separately from its bolder gemstone and metal companions to avoid scratches. And remember, pearls are partygoers, not perfume lovers. Apply your favorite scents before slipping on your pearl pieces.

Get yourself one piece of natural pearl jewelry. You maybe would finally find out what the "fuss" for centuries is all about. Why Johannes Vermeer painted "The Girl with a Pearl Earring" and why Grace Kelly said "The pearl is the queen of gems and the gem of queens.”

 

Sincerely yours, 

 

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