The Distinctions between Freshwater and Saltwater Pearls

Generally speaking, saltwater pearls refer to Akoya pearls, south sea pearls and Tahitian pearls. Freshwater and saltwater pearls are differentiated by several aspects.

1. Shape 

Saltwater pearls are nuclear and the shapes are mostly very round. The various shapes, such as drop, off-round, and baroque are often attributed to one kind of freshwater pearls which are cultivated without nuclear.

2. Origin and color

Saltwater pearls

Akoya pearls---Japan and China

South pearls---Hepu city, Guangxi province, China

South Sea pearls--- Australia and Indonesia

Tahitian pearls---- French Polynesia

Saltwater pearls vary white, golden from black and silver

Freshwater pearls are mainly from the lakes in Zhejiang and Hunan provinces, which are located in the middle and lower areas of Yangtze River in China. White, pink and lavender are common.

3. blemish 

Spiral is uncommon for saltwater pearls, which is very often seen in freshwater pearls. The blemishes on saltwater pearls are generally like needle-eyes.

4. Luster

Due to the different growing years, their lusters are special. It usually takes 2-3 years for freshwater pearls and 3-4 years for saltwater pearls. The high density leads to sharp and bright luster for saltwater pearls. And freshwater pearls look shiny and mild.

5. Yield

The advanced cultivation skills and easy growing environment request offer high freshwater pearl yield, which reach to 1500 tons annually. It is said that an oyster produces more than 10 freshwater pearls each years. However, saltwater pearls are easily affected by circumstance and hard to control the growing surroundings. The longer growing year and high requirement on the circumstance make saltwater pearls expensive. Plus, each oyster in saltwater only produces a pearl. 

The Treatments for Beautifying Pearls

Pearl is a born beauty, always keep that loveliness and charm which God gave her. However, with some treatments and improvement, she can turn to be more desirable and attractive.

Pearls processing technology Preliminary treatment: Soaking pearls in mixed liquor of ammonia and benzoylate so as to loosen the texture, and take pure glycerin as dehydrating agent to remove the water inside the pearls.

Bleaching: With an average temperature from 20-30 degrees Celsius, the pearls are placed in Hydrogen peroxide, which is at concentration of 5% and ph7-8. Exposing them to sunlight or ultraviolet radiation for 7-10 days, the pearls will change to off white, silver or pure white. The bleaching is actually an old-aged pearl processing method and is used wildly by pearl dealers in the world.

Dyeing: The pearls are immersed for a period of several days in diluted special chemical solutions and heated under an average temperature from 40-50 degrees Celsius. Blue, green, red, purple, black, silver and brown hues all can be dyed. It needs few weeks for coloring agent to intrude into pearls. Temperature, light source and pearl structures all determine the resulting colors.

Polishing: Polishing is one of important processing skills and is needed after bleaching. It increases the bleaching effect greatly. Tiny pieces of walnut shell, bamboo chips, wax, diatomite and salt particle are crucial materials for polishing.

Others: γ-ray radiation is a reliable and safe processing method of changing pearls colors. Peeling is another processing method for getting of the surface defects. Due to the difficulty in manual operation, it is not used often nowadays.

How to buy pearl rings from an online jeweler

Pearls can be reckoned as one kind of special jewelry. Diamond is actually a semi-precious stone. And it is expensive just because DeBeers owns 90% of the diamond mines in the world. While to make a pearl, an oyster has to die. Pearl is formed out of oyster's tears. What could be more special than frozen tears? As a matter of fact, the natural pearl is chosen as the ladies’ favorite jewelry, which can make them look so innocent and classy.

I am often asked by my customers how to buy a suitable pearl ring. It is actually a good and useful subject for us to learn. Before you buy a pearl ring, ask your family members, friends or neighbors who are familiar with or have similar purchasing experience. More or less, they will give you some practical tips.

Two options are available for purchasing pearl rings—local store and online shopping. It sometimes makes huge price differences for same type of pearls rings. We need to build in time to get enough research on it. Several factors dominate their price.

First of all, pearl type and grade. Generally speaking, South sea pearls with glowing skin and perfect roundness are the most valuable ones. They take years and years to be formed in the ocean. Some large South Sea pearls in flaws can be much expensive than other pearl types due to their unique and very strict growth requirement. The black Tahitian pearls rank second because how chic and special they look. And Akoya and freshwater pearls with good quality are usually in a nice and acceptable price. So they are adopted to diverse pearl jewelry and very popular. Do remember to get a certificate and have the pearl appraised by jeweler is a good idea.

Secondly, metal circle of pearl ring. This is very crucial part in deciding the price and you should always make sure which metal you want. Normally, 18K yellow/white gold, 14K yellow/ white gold and sterling silver are three basically metal circles for pearl rings. Sterling silver post is most economical while the K gold pearl rings are more shining and expensive. For those who are allergic to gold, you might be interested to sterling silver post.

Finally, online shopping is usually cheaper than real stores because less cost on labors and shop rent. You'll need to know what exactly the real ring look like and make sure the seller sends you real pictures when shopping online.

Colorful Pearls Enrich your Life

Pearls come in a wide variety of colors, ranging from white all the way to black. How pearls get their colors has been a mystery for 80 years. Scientists claim that pearl oyster species, the length of cultivating time, water temperature and even the pearl harvest season affect the pearl colors. No one can know the accurate colors before the pearls are removed from the shell.

The same oyster which is implanted with different bead nucleus may produce different pearl colors. Scientists still can’t find the exact answers. Oysters produce almost all colors of pearls. When mention about pearl color, we refer to body color. Body color is the predominant basic color of the pearl. Standard colors from black Tahitian pearls, to the milk white Akoya pearls, to the silver-white South Sea pearls. However, if carefully exam any color of these pearls, you will find their colors can be changed because of the surface reflection. The color range of Tahitian pearls varies from soft silver-gray to deep black, from peacock to green, it is no surprising to find pink, purple refractions at the same time. These refractions are so called overtones. The one or more colors that overlie the body color. On black pearls these colors are usually easiest to see in the lighter areas of the pearl.

Subtle combination of colors such as pink, blue, green and silver are common. Most of refraction of the black pearl color is green or pink. People often describe pearl’s color by using a combination of body color and overtone. On white pearls they are easier to see in the darker areas. For example, peacock Tahitian pearl means black Tahitian pearl with peacock overtone.

Overtone is an important factor to evaluate multicolor pearls (non-white pearls, black pearls for example). Different people have different preference on pearl overtone. White pearls with rose overtone are popular in United States and Japan. In France, people like white pearls with cream overtone. In South America and Spain, yellow and gold pearls are their favorite. Demands for white pearls with rose overtone have been great. So they are more expensive than golden and white pearls. Black Tahitian pearls are costly than traditional pink, lavender or yellow pearls.

There are many colors of pearls: white, gold, silver, pink, red, black, blue, gray and other colors. White with rose overtone is popular and blue-black metallic ribbon is the best. As a matter of fact, there is no high or low for pearl colors. They are all the same. However, the great demand and scarcity for a certain color hike the prices. Even so, the value of color only accounted for 10% for the pearls. Yes, pearl color does affect the price of pearls. This affection is more prominent on saltwater pearl than on freshwater pearl. It differs from type to type. Even pearls in a same category have quite different price level just because of their color. The presence of overtone color can make pearl more valuable. However, pearl jewelry is a decoration to inspire beauty of wearer. It is better to choose suitable one instead of precious one. Your primary concern should be what looks best on you.

Make your day magical with Bridal Pearl Accessories

Known as the "stone of sincerity," pearls are thought to promote faith, charity, innocence, integrity, truth and loyalty. What better way to show your faithfulness and devotion for all eternity than to ask for her hand in marriage with a beautiful pearl ring?! Pearl rings at ShecyPearls show her that she's that very special woman with whom you've chosen to spend the rest of your life.




18K Multicolor Cultured Akoya Pearl Ring, 6.5mm-7.0mm , AA+< >

Simplistic in style, yet elegant in form. This gorgeous pearl ring and its ingenious design of gently swirling high sheen gold will mesmerize your senses. Its swooping character embraces two beautiful white and black pearls. These genuine Akoya pearls measure approximately 6.5-7.5mm in diameter and have a stunning nacre. The pearls have perfect round shape. Its radiating luster will make this piece enjoyable for years to come. The complicated, curving setting is made of high polished 18kt. Both 18 K white gold and 18K yellow gold are available. Makes a perfect wedding or anniversary gift!

Every woman deserves to special bridal accessories of her own. Choosing the perfect pearl accessories can be one of the most exciting parts about your decision to get married.



White Cultured Freshwater Pearl Necklace, 7.0 mm-8.0mm , AAA< >

This elegant and classic pearl necklace will complement any wardrobe. Its timeless design is highlighted by genuine freshwater cultured pearls measuring 7.0mm-8.0mm each. The pearls have a fantastic luster with round perfection. Wear it casual or dress up any outfit!

Bride pearl jewelry has always been a fantastic and inseparable complement for brides in their special occasions. The symbol of eternal love and purity makes it ideal pearl jewelry for brides. Yes, there’s no better match for a stunning white dress of satin, lace or tulle than the sparkle of bride pearl jewelry set gracing the neck, hand, ears and wrists of beautiful brides.

Simply exquisite, this pearl set features white freshwater pearls. This elegant design is a beautiful choice for a wedding or special occasion and will coordinate beautifully with any dress. It is available in your choice of gold or silver plating.

Black Cultured Tahitian Pearl Pendant, 11mm-12mm , AAA< >


This wonderful pearl pendant incorporates symbols to express ones love and desires. A heart shaped symbol pendant post symbolizes infinite love. The love symbol is accented by glittering round black Tahitian pearl. The pearl pendant has a total combined weight of o.02 carats. It has a large sliding space which makes it able to accommodate just about any chain you would want to put it on. will sit nicely on your neck. This stunning piece is made of 18kt. This pearl pendant is shown in 18k yellow gold but can also be made in 18k white gold.

It is no doubt that Shecy Pearl Jewelry is the ultimate destination for brides to grab the favorite bride pearl jewelry.We make great effort to select the most classic and popular pearl jewelry styles and hope they will fully fit your style and budget. You can find a wide range of dazzling and affordable bride pearl jewelry here that includes pearl necklace, ring, earrings, pendant and pearl jewelry set. No matter you want a vintage and simple style wedding ring or a complete set of matching bride pearl jewelry, they are all available at Shecy Pearl Jewelry. We are always pleased to do you a service and hope you can enjoy your bride pearl jewelry shopping trip here.

As you plan your webbing, you will want to make the moment even more special. Think of our bridal pearl accessories as “must –have” items for the most romantic moment of your life!

Pearl Authenticity Certificates

We have many times been asked by our customers if a Certificate of Authenticity will be enclosed when they get their pearl jewelry. At ShecyPearls, every piece of Pearl Jewelry comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. Pearl Jewelry Certificate at ShecyPearls assures you that the pearl jewelry you are getting is an actual Shecy product and guarantees the quality and craftsmanship of our pearl jewelry product. ShecyPearls certifies that all pearl jewelry are strictly examined and of 100% authenticity in accordance with the description.

Pearl Certificates of Authenticity is an evident to prove the pearl identity. The certificate is an important issue when it comes to investment quality pearl jewelry. For anything less, a good origin certificate is a bonus. It is an expert's assurance that we got what we paid for. Meanwhile, the certificate is assurance of the investment value of your pearl jewelry in future. Anything bought with investment in mind, should have a reasonable increase in value in time in order to be sold with profit. Pearl jewelry is an investment in beauty and pride of ownership, but not an investment upon which one can reasonably expect to make a profit. Therefore, please do remember, that when you buy, someone is making a profit. The only purpose of the pearl jewelry is to be beautiful. That’s to say, to choose a piece of pearl jewelry only for its foremost purpose - its beauty, and for this, your best advisor is your eye, not certificate. Pearl jewelry and flowers are beautiful, but they are beautiful precisely because they are expensive and lack intrinsic value, which is why it is mostly women who think flowers and jewelry are beautiful. Their beauty lies in their inherent uselessness.

If you are interested in the pearl jewelry at our store, but still feel hesitate to purchase. Go to a local jeweler and ask to see few similar styles, without knowing the certificate details and price. Make your first, second and third choice and then ask for the price. Ask for the price alone and then with the price in mind, look at our pearl jewelry again and figure out if the difference in price corresponds to the difference in appearance, remembering that beauty is the sole purpose of pearl jewelry. Only then ask for the certificates and decide for yourself the level of their importance.

DIY your Jewelry with ShecyPearls

At Shecy Pearl Jewelry, we not only provide awesome pearl earrings, necklaces, bracelets and pendants, but also loose pearls and unfinished pearl strands. They are already for your own design. Pearls are popular craft product as they lend an element of mystery, natural beauty to jewelry designs, but making homemade pearl requires the ability to drill holes in dense, strong material that can't be cut without special tools. However, you do not need to worry. We can drill for you for free!

We have many times been questioned about half-drilled and full-drilled pearls. Half-drilled and full-drilled pearls are used for different jewelry. Half-drilled pearl is with a hole that goes only half-way through, instead of all the way through like a normal pearl. There are many findings that are made to take half-drilled pearls, like ring settings and earring posts. For half-drilled pearls, the hole length generally account for about two thirds or three fourths of the diameter of the pearl. Full-drilled pearl with a hole that a wire thread can go through. It is often used for necklaces and pendants. We drilled pearls by manual labor many years ago. Now, we use small drilling machines to make the whole process precise and easy. Various methods have been used for drilling pearls. Generally speaking, we place the pearl at a certain angle from the two sides, and the two holes meet at the centre at last. Some customers ask us if it is possible to drill pearls in size 2-3mm. From the technically perspective, the minimum diameter is 0.3mm for drill holes. As a matter of fact, it is really tough to drill in such small pearls.

The pearls are usually fixed onto a piece of jewelry using special glues, which make up of shellac, turpentine and colophonium. These special glues are used to stick the drilled pearl onto the metal findings. Mix and glue them, and push the metal end to the hole of pearl. It is common for pearls to come loose from rings, earrings and necklaces because pearls are soft and easy to be damaged. Most glue will soften with heat and pearl can easily pull off from the peg. Therefore, they should be protected from extreme temperatures and moisture. If the pearl on your ring or earring has fall off, just keep calm. You can repair it yourself. In fact, it's quite easy to glue a pearl onto a ring or earring if it has come loose. Firstly, try to clean off as much of the old glue as you can, especially for the gunk on the post. Use good glue like E600 and apply it with the tip of a toothpick. When applying the glue, try to get some down into the drill hole. Don’t use too much because it spreads easily and then the glue will on the body of the pearl. The pearl shouldn't be worn until the glue is completely cured.

If you love handcrafted jewelry, why not do it yourself? Just take a first try!