Cultured freshwater pearls are grown inside oysters, primarily in found in freshwater lakes or ponds. A nucleated seed is inserted into the oyster that stimulates it to produce nacre, the beautiful substance that gives pearls their luminous appearance.

Many traditional cultured freshwater pearls are tissue nucleated and composed almost entirely of nacre. Modern freshwater cultivation also includes bead nucleated varieties, which can produce much larger and rounder pearls.

Most of the high-quality freshwater pearls found on the market today are cultivated in China, where pearl farming has developed considerably over generations.

One of the most captivating qualities of freshwater pearls is their natural color diversity.

White and Cream:
Timeless, luminous shades that complement almost every wardrobe.

Pink and Peach:
Warm, delicate tones that bring a romantic softness to jewelry.

Lavender:
Subtle purple hues ranging from pale lilac to deeper lavender, offering a distinctive alternative to classic white pearls.

The species of the oyster largely determines the base color of the pearls. Environmental elements can also influence the final color, such as water temperature, mineral content, and the oyster's diet. Iron and manganese can particularly create natural colors such as peach or lavender. Most freshwater pearl colors are natural, some are dyed or color treated to achieve colors outside of their typical natural range. When purchasing unusually vivid or dark colored pearls, it is worth asking if the color has been altered. Dyed pearls do not mean it is fake, though naturally colored pearls are more valuable.

Not all pearls are perfectly round, and that is what makes them an affordable conversation piece.

Round:
Symmetrical pearls prized for their classic appearance and relative rarity.

Near-round:
Pearls that appear round at a glance but show subtle natural variations.

Oval and Teardrop:
Teardrop or raindrop shaped pearls that create graceful shapes and flow in necklaces and earrings.

Button:
Slightly flattened pearls on one side, often used in earrings. They are also called mabé pearls.

Baroque:
Irregularly shaped pearls with expressive curves, contours, and individual character.

At Abby Chu, we are especially drawn to pearls whose shapes become part of the design itself. A gentle curve, and a beautiful asymmetry can inspire an entire piece of jewelry.

1. Luster:
Luster describes how light reflects from the pearl's surface. Fine pearls have bright, lively reflections that give them depth and radiance. A pearl with poor luster may appear dull or chalky.

2. Surface Quality
Most pearls have some natural surface characteristics. Small spots, ridges, and other variations are common. What matters is their visibility, severity, and effect on the pearl's beauty and durability.

3. Shape
Round pearls generally command higher value when other quality factors are equal. However, beautifully proportioned baroque pearls can be equally desirable for contemporary jewelry.

4. Color
Look for appealing, consistent color and attractive overtones. Natural color variations can be part of the pearl's character. Faux pearls do not exude color variations.

5. Nacre Quality
Nacre contributes to the pearl's luster and durability. High-quality nacre creates a rich and luminous appearance rather than a thin or chalky surface. For jewelry containing multiple pearls, also consider how thoughtfully their sizes, colors, shapes, and luster have been matched, or intentionally contrasted.

One oyster could yield up to 30 pearls at a time, compared to its seawater pearl counterparts. This greater availability helps make freshwater pearls readily accessible across a broad range of prices.

Once in a while, exceptional freshwater pearls with beautiful luster, round shapes, and clean surfaces can be found in the batch and they would more valuable. Freshwater pearls tend to be more affordable, but a pearl's quality matters more than its category alone.

From a corporate office to a casual shopping day, a simple freshwater earring, necklace, bracelet, or a combination of all three, is a subtle appreciation to the class and elegance of pearl jewelry.

The timeless appeal of pearls is a perfect excuse to put them on regardless of occasion or outfit.