Fresh Water Pearls

Freshwater pearl cultivation is a process by which freshwater mussels are used to produce pearls. The process begins with the insertion of a small, spherical bead or piece of mantle tissue from another mussel into the body of the host mussel. The mussel then secretes nacre, a substance composed of calcium carbonate and conchiolin, around the bead, creating a pearl. 

Freshwater pearl cultivation can be traced back to the 13th century in China, where it was practiced in the pearls of the Yangtze River. Today, freshwater pearl cultivation is primarily carried out in China, Japan, and the United States.

  There are several different methods of freshwater pearl cultivation, including the bead nucleation method, in which a bead is inserted into the mussel, and the mantle tissue method, in which a piece of mantle tissue is inserted into the mussel.

Freshwater pearls are graded according to a number of factors, including size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, and nacre thickness. The most important factor in grading freshwater pearls is the thickness and quality of the nacre, as this determines the pearl's durability and beauty.

Size is another important factor in grading freshwater pearls. Freshwater pearls are typically smaller than saltwater pearls and are graded according to the diameter of the pearl in millimeters.

Shape is also a factor in grading freshwater pearls. The most common shapes are round, semi-round, and baroque (irregularly shaped). Round pearls are the most valuable, followed by semi-round and baroque.

Color is another factor in grading freshwater pearls. Freshwater pearls can come in a range of colors, including white, cream, pink, peach, lavender, and black. The most valuable freshwater pearls are those with a uniform color and a high luster.

Luster is the amount of light that is reflected off the surface of the pearl and is an important factor in grading freshwater pearls. Freshwater pearls with a high luster have a glossy, shiny appearance.

Surface quality is also a factor in grading freshwater pearls. Freshwater pearls with a smooth, blemish-free surface are more valuable than those with blemishes or irregularities.

Overall, the grading of freshwater pearls is a complex process that takes into account a variety of factors, including size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, and nacre thickness. By understanding these factors, it is possible to accurately grade and value freshwater pearls.