Freshwater pearl or sea pearl which is good?
Fresh water pearls and sea water pearls have their own unique characteristics, which is better depends on the individual's needs, preferences and budget. Here's a detailed comparison of the two:
1. Growth environment and yield
Freshwater pearl: mainly produced in China's Yangtze River in the middle and lower reaches of Hunan, Zhejiang area of freshwater lakes or rivers. Because the freshwater environment is relatively stable, the yield of pearls is high, and one clam can produce multiple pearls.
Seawater pearls: mainly produced in the South China Sea of China, offshore Japan, Tahiti Islands of French Bosnia, Australia and Indonesia and other waters. The growing environment of seawater pearls is complex and the yield is relatively low, usually only one pearl can be produced by one shellfish.
2. Color and gloss
Freshwater pearl: a variety of colors, including white, orange pink, purple pink, etc., but the luster is relatively soft.
Seawater pearls: rich in color, including white, gold, black, silver, etc., of which black, silver, blue, gold are not available in freshwater pearls. The luster of sea pearl is bright, the texture is better, and the pearl is more moist.
3. Shape and size
Freshwater pearls: various shapes, common ellipses, oblates, rice grains, etc., close to the circle less. In terms of size, the standard diameter is generally between 3-6mm.
Seawater pearls: Most of them are round or oval, and the shape is more regular. In terms of size, the standard diameter is usually between 6-9mm, or even larger, such as the standard diameter of the South Ocean pearl requires more than 10mm.
4. Texture and imperfections
Freshwater pearls: the texture is relatively soft, and the surface defects are mostly threads or pit points.
Sea pearl: the texture is firm and hard, because it is grown in the deep sea, affected by the pressure of the sea, its appearance defects are usually mainly needle eyes.
5. Value and price
Freshwater pearls: Because of the high yield and relatively controllable breeding environment, the price is relatively close to the people.
Seawater pearls: due to long growth cycle, low yield and uncontrollable factors affected by seawater environment, their value is high, and the price is correspondingly expensive.
6. Usage Scenarios and recommendations
Freshwater pearls are a good choice if you have a limited budget, or like pearls in various shapes and colors, and are mainly used for everyday wear.
If the pursuit of high quality, high gloss, and the budget is sufficient, seawater pearls are more suitable. Its unique luster and texture make it the first choice for high-end jewelry.
To sum up, both freshwater pearls and seawater pearls have their own advantages, and the choice of which is better depends on individual circumstances. At the time of purchase, it is recommended to go to a reputable jeweler or professional pearl appraisal agency to purchase to ensure the quality and value of the pearls.