What Are Pearls? Types, Quality, and Real vs. Synthetic

What are pearls?

Pearls are organic gemstones produced by mollusks such as oysters and mussels. They are the only gemstones derived from living organisms. A pearl forms when a foreign object — such as a grain of sand or a piece of shell — enters the mollusk. In response, the mollusk begins to deposit layers of nacre (mother-of-pearl) to cover the object. Over time, a pearl forms with a distinctive luster and color. Check out our pearl jewelry collection for earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.

Types of pearls

Freshwater pearls — cultivated in freshwater lakes, rivers, and ponds. Available in various colors and sizes. More budget-friendly than saltwater pearls. Akoya pearls — originate from Japanese oysters. Known for their perfectly round shape and bright, mirror-like luster. The classic white pearl. Tahitian pearls — cultivated in the warm waters of the South Pacific. They range in color from silvery grey to deep black with green or purple undertones. South Sea pearls — cultivated in Australia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Large in size, light in color, and rare. The most valuable cultured pearls. Combine with matching women's jewelry for an elegant, complete look.

Natural pearls vs. cultured pearls vs. imitation pearls

Natural pearls — found in the wild, without human intervention. Extremely rare and valuable. Cultured pearls — produced with human intervention: a nucleus is implanted into the mollusk, after which it deposits nacre. High quality, more affordable than natural pearls. Imitation pearls — artificially made from glass, plastic, or shell with a nacre coating. Affordable and available in all colors and sizes. Thanks to modern technology, high-quality imitation pearls are hardly distinguishable from real pearls.

Quality and luster of pearls

A pearl's quality is determined by its luster — how bright and deep the reflection is; its surface quality — how smooth and blemish-free the surface is; its shape — perfectly round is the most valuable; its size — larger pearls are rarer and more valuable; and its color — white, cream, pink, black, or gold, depending on the type.

Frequently asked questions about pearls

How do I recognize real pearls?

Gently rub the pearl along your teeth — real pearls will feel slightly gritty (due to the nacre structure), while imitation pearls will feel smooth. Real pearls are also cooler to the touch and have a deeper, more complex luster.

Are cultured pearls less valuable than natural pearls?

Cultured pearls are real pearls — they are produced by a living mollusk with nacre. They are less rare than wild pearls and therefore more affordable, but of comparable quality.

How do I care for pearl jewelry?

Clean with a soft, damp cloth after wearing. Avoid contact with perfume, hairspray, and chemicals — these can damage the nacre layer. Store separately in a soft pouch. Put pearls on last and take them off first.

Can pearls discolor?

Yes, pearls are sensitive to acids, perfume, and sweat. Regular cleaning and proper storage prevent discoloration. Imitation pearls with a coating can wear off over time.

Are pearls suitable for daily wear?

Pearls are relatively soft (Mohs 2.5–4.5) and require careful handling. They are most suitable for earrings and pendants, which experience less wear and tear. Read more on our jewelry wiki for more care tips.