[Pearl <Pearl>]

Mohs Scale: 2.5 June Birthstone

Pearl jewel words: health, longevity, wealth, chastity, innocence, harmony, perfection

 

The pearls produced by pearl oysters over a long period of time are different in color, luster, size and shape one by one. There are many types of pearls, but there are two major criteria for classification. Habitat environment (seawater/freshwater) and means of growth (natural/farmed). Unfortunately, due to the popularity of pearls in the past, overexploitation of pearl oysters has led to the extinction of many pearl oysters. Therefore, natural pearls are very expensive in both seawater and freshwater.

<Pearl>

Saltwater pearls are harvested from pearl oysters, white lip oysters, black lip oysters, and mabe oysters that live in oceans, bays, and coves. In cultured pearls, a "nucleus" is placed inside the body of the oyster, and the mother-of-pearl layer is formed. (Nuclear seawater pearls are called Keshi.) In Japan, Akoya pearls are cultured. Above all, pearls called hanadama are beautiful and expensive.

<Freshwater Pearl>

Freshwater pearls refer to pearls harvested from Ikecho shellfish and crow shellfish that live in freshwater lakes and rivers. Most freshwater pearls on the market today are cultured. In Japan, it is cultivated in Lake Biwa and Lake Kasumigaura. Since the nucleus is not inserted into the oyster, it is formed entirely of mother-of-pearl. It grows into unique shapes such as baroque, drop, and stick. It is different from shell pearls (imitation pearls) that are coated on the mother shell. In general, only one pearl can be harvested from one shellfish, but multiple freshwater pearls can be harvested from one shellfish. At Monsteraleaf, we carefully select and use high-quality freshwater pearls that are less scratched, tightly wound, and have a beautiful luster.

〈Care for pearls〉

Since pearls are organic substances, they are vulnerable to heat, alcohol contained in perfumes, cosmetics, detergents, etc. If they come into contact with them, their beautiful brilliance will be lost. Also, since sweat is acidic, it can damage the pearl layer and cause cloudiness. Also, since it is easily scratched, separate it from other jewelry and store it in a separate case. Avoid storing in places with high humidity or high temperatures.