Knowledge of Loose Pearls
Know everything about Loose pearl and its usage
The Basic Concept of Loose Pearl
Loose pearls which we generally refer to real pearls from freshwater pearl mussel, Pinctada Maxima oyster, Akoya oyster, Abalone, conch and other mollusks after going through the steps of cleaning, processing, screening, grading, etc., single pearls.
- Uses of Loose Pearls
It can be used to make pearl pendants, designed pearl necklaces, pearl rings, pearl bracelets, pearl brooches, pearl headdresses, clothing decorations, hat decorations, and various decorative inlays, etc. Pearl necklaces and pearl bracelets are usually made from pearl strands, and pearl earrings are made from paired pearls. These need to be manually matched (pearl size, color, luster, overtone, and blemishes) before they can be made. Eusharon has strict matching grading standards. If you have high requirements for pearl quality, please choose our pearl strands or paired pearls directly.
- Loose Pearls Classified by Pearl Type
Natural loose pearls(naturally formed), and cultured loose pearls(artificially cultivated).
Artificially cultivated loose pearls contain freshwater pearls, freshwater AK pearls, Edison pearl, Akoya pearl, Tahitian pearl, and South Sea pearl.
- Loose Pearls Classified by Pearl Color
White pearl, Black pearl, Peach pearl, Pink pearl, Lavender pearl, Gold pearl, Grey pearl, Blue pearl, Copper pearl, and Kasumi pearls.
- Loose Pearls Classified by Pearl Shape
Round pearl, Semi round pearl, Rice pearl Or Drop pearl, Pearl button, Baroque pearl, and Keshi pearl.
- Quality of Loose Pearls
The quality of loose pearls obtained from mother-of-pearl oysters varies widely. For example, approximately 70% of freshwater loose pearls have no value for jewelry making or decoration making, and are generally used in pearl powder, skincare products, and other products. Only 5% of pearls are suitable for fine jewelry production, and top quality pearls that can be called freshadama pearls are only a few thousandths. With advancements in cultivation technology, the proportion of high-quality pearls among nucleus-cultured freshwater pearls has increased significantly, with excellent luster and roundness. Eusharon has strict pearl grading standards. View our grading standards before purchasing wholesale loose pearls you need.
The Factors of Loose Pearls Quality
- Luster of loose pearls
Pearl luster is the most important factor affecting a pearl's beauty. Observe the pearl's surface under sunlight to see if the reflected light is clear and sharp (e.g., see your own reflection). Eusharon requires grade AAA+ and above loose pearls to achieve “Excellent” (see your own reflection clearly); grade SAAA pearls must have both “Excellent” luster and “overtone”.
- Color of loose pearls
Natural color pearls (such as freshwater pearls in white, pink, and purple, and saltwater pearls in white, gold, and black) are more valuable but command higher prices.
Optimized colored pearls (such as dyed loose pearls) must be clearly labeled with the process and inspected for uniform color and no risk of fading.
- Shape of Loose Pearls
Loose round pearls are suitable for making regular designs such as necklaces and earrings.
Loose baroque pearls or loose oval pearls are suitable for creative or asymmetrical designs.
- Size of Loose Pearls
Cultured pearls are rarer and more expensive as they get larger (e.g., over 14mm). Due to high labor costs and limited production, tiny freshwater pearls (e.g.,1-3mm) are more expensive as much higher quality. Natural pearls are extremely rare and very expensive. The above are worth collecting.
- Nacre Thickness of Loose Pearls
Definition: Nacre means the thickness of a pearl's "nacre" and directly determines its durability and value.
Key Stats:
In addition to natural pearls, among cultured pearls, only non-nucleus cultured freshwater pearls are nacre pearls. The thickness of the nacreous layers of freshwater AK pearls and Edison pearls is usually ≥2mm.
The thicker the nacreous, the more wear-resistant it is.
The thickness of the nacre varies depending on the type of saltwater pearls. Tahitian pearls are typically 0.8-2mm, South Sea pearls are 2-3mm, and their quality is relatively stable. Akoya pearls generally have a nacre thickness of 0.3-0.5mm. Try to choose ≥0.5mm for more consistent quality.
- Optimized Treatment
Common processes: Bleaching, Polishing, Dyeing, etc. Do not choose loose pearls that contain migratable fluorescent agents.
FAQ and Pitfall Guide of Loose Pearls
- Question: Are small pits or spots on loose pearls flaws?
Answer: Slight growth marks (such as the cloudy texture of freshwater pearls) are natural characteristics, but significant pits or cracks will reduce quality and durability.
- Question: How to identify the authenticity of loose pearls?
Answer: Friction testing(real pearls feel rough when rubbed), X-ray testing (real pearls have a layered structure inside), or professional instruments to test the thickness of nacre.
