What are Freshwater Pearls?

Freshwater pearls are natural or cultured pearls that form inside freshwater mussels, typically found in lakes, rivers, and ponds. They are valued in the jewellery industry for their diverse range of sizes, shapes, and natural colours. They are valued for their soft, elegant luster and are often more affordable than other types of pearls.

Shape

Round: Perfectly spherical or near-round.

Oval: Slightly elongated.

Baroque: Irregularly shaped with unique, artistic forms.

Button: Flat on one side and domed on the other.

Rice-shaped: Small, oblong with a smooth surface.

Because of the natural forming process, freshwater pearls come in a variety of shapes. Only 1% to 2% of the harvest had excellent spherical shapes with few to no flaws. For freshwater jewellery, irregular shapes like buttons, drops, or keshi are also appealing choices.

Colour

Freshwater pearls naturally occur in various colours, including White, Cream, Pink, Peach, and Lavender. Dyed pearls can come in Gold, Black, Blue, Green, and more vibrant shades for modern jewellery. These colours can result from natural processes or subtle enhancements. Factors including the type of mussels, the water quality, and genetics, can strongly influence their colour.

The colour variety of freshwater pearls complements any skin tone, making it a great option for gifting and a necessary addition to any jewellery collection.

Size

Freshwater pearls can range in size from 2mm to 16mm in diameter, the length of cultivation can directly affect their sizes. Smaller pearls are commonly used in intricate designs, while larger pearls are used in the production of bold, elegant statement jewellery.

Perfectly spherical freshwater pearls are among the most valuable since they are far more difficult to cultivate and much rarer to find in nature. As one of the main pearl cultivation countries in Asia, China can produce 14mm - 16 mm freshwater pearls using advanced breeding methods.

Luster

Freshwater pearls typically have a softer, less "mirror-like" luster compared to most seawater pearls. This is because the pearls' strong crystal nacre composition gives them exceptional durability. The overall luster for most freshwater pearls is softer and more satin-like, making it appear more subtle and natural.

Why Choose Freshwater Pearls?

Freshwater pearls are popular for their beauty and versatility. They’re typically more affordable than saltwater pearls, making them accessible while still offering an elegant appearance. With so many shapes, colors, and sizes to choose from, they are perfect for creating unique jewelry that suits personal styles or special occasions.