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ABOUT PEARLS
Pearls have been an object of desire through the centuries. The exotic, lustrous skin of pearls embodies all that is feminine. No other jewel makes the transition from day to evening as smoothly as pearls. In addition to the classic strands and stud earrings, creative new designs are helping to bring these alluring gems to the forefront of the fashion world. Either by themselves or paired with other colored gemstones, pearls offer glamorous sophistication and timeless elegance.
USA Jewels is your retail pearl supplier for exceptional quality pearls. Our pearls are renowned for quality and the richness of their natural nacre. Make the classic beauty and timeless appeal of cultured pearls a central part of your jewelry collection.
South Sea Cultured Pearls
The allure of South Sea pearls is legendary. USA Jewels provides an exceptional, extensive selection of high quality, large South Sea cultured pearls.
Learn more about South Sea Pearls
Tahitian Cultured Pearls
Tahitian pearls are often called "Black Pearls" and come in an opalescent black hue, shimmering with peacock green, gray and purple overtones.
Learn more about Tahitian Cultured Pearls
Akoya Cultured Pearls
Akoya pearls are the classic and best-known variety of all cultured pearls, and are what people typically imagine when thinking of a pearl.
Learn more about Akoya Cultured Pearls
Freshwater Cultured Pearls
Supply for Freshwater pearls is plentiful, as each shell can produce up to 100 pearls simultaneously. Consequently the price of freshwater pearls varies and is generally lower than other cultured pearls. Learn more about Freshwater Cultured Pearls
Mabe Cultured Pearls
Formed on the inside of the shell, rather than the inside of the body of the oyster, these pearls are often referred to as cultured half pearls.
Learn more about Mabe Cultured Pearls
Selecting Pearls
Luster
Complexion
Size
Shape
Classic shapes range in descending order of value from round to near-round, from oval to drop. More contemporary shapes include circle and baroque. Popularity of certain shapes, or the rarity of others, can result in a premium price for particular shapes. It's important to understand that in pearl industry terms, generally the shapes from round to drop are pretty symmetrical, while anything baroque denotes a pearl that is completely asymmetrical or free-form. These unusual shapes usually occur in Japanese cultured pearls as well as Tahitian, South Sea and Freshwater pearls.
Caring for Pearls
Daily Care
As an organic gem, pearls are vulnerable to chemicals found in cosmetics, hair spray, and perfume. To preserve your pearls' luster, always put on your jewelry after applying make-up and styling products.
Pearls can also be harmed by perspiration. Before placing your pearls back in the jewelry box, wipe them gently with a soft cloth.
Storage
Contact with other jewelry may scratch pearls. Avoid tangles by fastening clasps, then lay each jewelry piece in a separate compartment of your jewelry box. When traveling, use a protective jewelry pouch or wrap each item in a soft cloth. Pearls can dehydrate when stored too long, so enjoy them frequently.
Cleaning
Never use an ultrasonic cleaner on your pearls. It can damage their nacre. Occasionally wipe your pearls gently with a cloth dipped in mild, soapy water. Then rinse the cloth in fresh water and wipe the pearls clean. Dry them with a soft cloth.
If pearls come into contact with an acid substance such as fruit juice, vinegar, or other chemicals, immediately wipe clean with a soft cloth. Be careful not to submerge your pearls in water as this will weaken the silk thread.
Maintenance
From time to time, check the clasps or screws holding your jewelry together. With frequent wear, even well cared for pearls may loosen and they will require restringing.
The photographs of the shapes shown are representative samples of the various shapes and qualities available. As a product of nature, each pearl is rare and unique. The pearls you purchase may not look exactly like the images shown.
Color
Cultured pearls come in a variety of colors from rose to black. The desirability of different pearl colors is a matter of individual taste. The most popular color is white or white with slight overtones. Pearls that are naturally colored, rather than color enhanced by artificial means, will add value to the pearl. Most South Sea cultured pearls offered by USA Jewels have natural color and luster and are not enhanced.
