What are freshwater pearls? A thorough explanation of their characteristics, price and quality
Posted by GINZAREPEARL
Freshwater pearls are pearls cultivated in freshwater, such as lakes and ponds. They are popular as casual jewelry due to their affordable price and wide variety . In this article, we will explain in detail the characteristics, quality, and selection of freshwater pearls.
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What are freshwater pearls? Explaining their basic characteristics
Freshwater pearls are pearls harvested from shellfish that grow in freshwater areas such as lakes and rivers. The main bivalve shells are the Acanthus oyster and Acanthus punctatus.
In Japan, it is farmed in Lake Biwa and other places, but it is often imported from China.
In recent years, thanks to improvements in culture techniques, pearls of a quality comparable to real pearls have been produced.
Main characteristics of freshwater pearls
- Affordable price range
- A wide variety of colors and shapes
- High durability and practicality
- Sweat and water resistant
- Ideal for casual use
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Freshwater Pearl Quality and Value
The quality of freshwater pearls is determined mainly by the following factors:
Shine and luster
In recent years, improvements in technology have led to an increase in freshwater pearls with a deeper shine. High-quality pearls in particular have a beautiful luster that seems to radiate from within.
Shape and size
- Round (perfect circle): the most popular and the most expensive
- Semi-round: A slightly distorted circular shape
- Baroque: irregular and unique shapes
- Drop: Teardrop shape
- Button: Slightly flat
Sizes vary widely from 2 to 10 mm, with around 7 mm being the most common.
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Freshwater pearl price range and uses
Price guide
The price guide for each freshwater pearl item is as follows:
- Necklaces: 3,000 yen to 50,000 yen
- Pierced earrings: 2,000 yen to 30,000 yen
- Bracelets: 2,500 yen to 40,000 yen
Main usage scenarios
The main uses for freshwater pearls are as follows:
- Everyday accessories
- Office Casual
- party
- Entrance and graduation ceremonies
- Class reunions and dinner parties
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How to maintain freshwater pearls
Freshwater pearls are relatively durable , but the following care is recommended to maintain their beauty:
- After use, wipe gently with a soft cloth
- If sweat or makeup gets on the product, wipe it off with a slightly damp cloth.
- Store separately from other jewelry
- Store out of direct sunlight.
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Comparing freshwater pearls with other pearls! What are the differences?
The characteristics of freshwater pearls and other typical pearls are summarized in a table. Check the differences between each type of pearl in the comparison table below.
| Features | Freshwater pearls | Akoya pearls | Black pearl | White South Sea Pearl |
| Origin | Japan/China | Japan | Tahiti | Japan/Australia/Indonesia/Philippines |
| Mother shell | Ikechogai (Seashell Shell) | Akoya pearl | Black-lipped pearl oyster | White butterfly shell |
| color | Available in a variety of colors including white, cream, purple, and gray | White, white pink, pink etc. are the mainstream. | Available in a variety of colors including black, green, and red | Gold-lipped varieties produce many gold-colored fish, while silver-lipped varieties produce many white-colored fish. |
| Size | Small grain sizes of 5mm or less are the mainstream Some individuals are over 10mm |
7 to 8 mm is the mainstream Individuals over 10mm are rare. |
Mostly 10mm or larger | Generally larger than 10 mm |
| shape | Round, baroque, drop, etc. | Mostly round | Available in a wide variety of shapes, including round, drop, and button | Like black pearls , they come in a variety of shapes, including lands, circles, and buttons. |
If you would like to know more about pearls other than freshwater pearls, please refer to the following article.
A thorough explanation of the different types of pearls! Introducing their characteristics, differences, and how to tell them apart from fakes
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Summary: The appeal of freshwater pearls and how to choose them
Freshwater pearls are a practical piece of jewelry that allows you to enjoy the beauty of pearls at an affordable price. They are highly durable and suitable for daily use, making them the perfect choice for those new to pearl jewelry. In recent years, the quality has improved, and there are more and more pieces that have a shine close to that of real pearls.
The key to choosing is to choose the right size and quality for your purpose. We recommend a reasonable size of around 7mm for everyday use, and a high-quality pearl of 8mm or more for special occasions. Freshwater pearls, which combine affordability with practicality, have become an indispensable part of the modern jewelry scene.