Why are freshwater pearls so cheap? Explaining the reason and how to choose high-quality pearls
Posted by GINZAREPEARL
Have you ever wondered, " Why are freshwater pearls so cheap? " The reason they are more affordable than real pearls such as Akoya pearls is due to differences in cultivation methods and production costs. Freshwater pearls can be mass-produced and the cultivation period is short, so they are sold at reasonable prices.
However, just because the price is low does not mean the quality is poor. In this article, we will explain in detail why freshwater pearls are cheap and how to choose high-quality freshwater pearls. By reading to the end, you will get some hints on how to find freshwater pearls with good value for money.
Freshwater pearls can be purchased here ▶
Why are freshwater pearls so cheap? Explaining the reason
Freshwater pearls are sold at a more reasonable price than real pearls (Akoya pearls) , but do you know why? By keeping the following three points in mind, you will understand why freshwater pearls are cheaper.
- Freshwater pearl farming methods and production costs
- The difference between freshwater pearls and genuine pearls (Akoya pearls)
- How to choose cheap but high quality freshwater pearls
By reading to the end, you will understand how freshwater pearl prices work and how to choose the best deal.
Freshwater pearl farming methods and production costs
Freshwater pearls are mainly cultivated in lakes and rivers in China and Japan. While only one Akoya pearl can be grown per oyster, freshwater pearls can be mass-produced because 20 to 30 pearls can be produced from one oyster at the same time. As a result, the production cost per pearl is significantly reduced, and they are sold at an affordable price.
The difference between freshwater pearls and genuine pearls (Akoya pearls)
Freshwater pearls are called " nucleus-less cultured " and are grown without inserting any foreign objects inside the shell, so the nacre is uniform in thickness and is entirely made up of nacre. On the other hand, genuine pearls (akoya pearls) are cultured with a nucleus, so the nacre is thin and has a strong luster. Freshwater pearls are thicker and have a softer luster, so they do not have the same luxurious feel as Akoya pearls, but the price is lower.
How to choose cheap but high quality freshwater pearls
Just because the price is low does not mean the quality is poor. By choosing pearls with beautiful luster and few surface scratches, you can obtain high-quality freshwater pearls . Also, pearls that are uniform in shape and close to a perfect circle tend to be more valuable.
Freshwater pearls can be purchased here ▶
Find out more about why freshwater pearls are so cheap
The low price of freshwater pearls is due not only to the fact that they can be mass-produced , but also to the following factors:
- Large volume of freshwater pearls in circulation
- Short cultivation period and production efficiency
- A wide variety of colors and shapes
By reading to the end, you will have a better understanding of why freshwater pearls are so cheap.
Large volume of freshwater pearls in circulation
Freshwater pearls are mass-produced, mainly in China, and are widely distributed on the market. Because of the large supply, the price tends to drop, making them available at reasonable prices.
Short cultivation period and production efficiency
Genuine pearls (Akoya pearls) require 3 to 4 years of cultivation, while freshwater pearls can be produced in a short period of 1 to 2 years . This keeps production costs down and allows prices to be set low.
A wide variety of colors and shapes
Freshwater pearls come in a wide variety of colors, including white, pink, lavender, and gold, and in a wide variety of shapes, from round (perfectly circular) to baroque (irregularly shaped). This has resulted in a wide range of designs and many affordable prices.
Freshwater pearls can be purchased here ▶
The pros and cons of cheap freshwater pearls
Freshwater pearls are attractive because of their low price, but it is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages before making a selection.
- The benefits of freshwater pearls
- Disadvantages of Freshwater Pearls
- Who is it suitable for?
By reading to the end, you will be able to decide if freshwater pearls are right for you.
The benefits of freshwater pearls
- Reasonably priced and easy to purchase
- There are many options available in a wide range of colors and shapes
- The natural winding is thick and resistant to deterioration over time.
Disadvantages of Freshwater Pearls
- The luster is not as strong as that of genuine pearls (Akoya pearls).
- Many of them are not perfectly round in shape.
- Low value as fine jewelry
Who is it suitable for?
Freshwater pearls are suitable for those looking for everyday accessories and casual jewelry, while genuine pearls (Akoya pearls) are suitable for formal occasions and those looking for jewelry that will last a lifetime.
Freshwater pearls can be purchased here ▶
How to Choose Cheap Freshwater Pearls Wisely
Even among inexpensive freshwater pearls, there are some points to keep in mind when choosing high-quality ones.
- How to choose high quality freshwater pearls
- Recommended freshwater pearls by price range
- How to buy at a discount
By reading through to the end, you will be able to choose freshwater pearls that offer great value for money.
How to choose high quality freshwater pearls
When choosing freshwater pearls, consider the following points:
- Choose one with a strong luster
- Choose one with a firm nacre (thickness of the nacre layer).
- Choose one with few surface scratches
Recommended freshwater pearls by price range
- Under 5,000 yen : small freshwater pearl earrings and bracelets
- 5,000 to 10,000 yen : Simple freshwater pearl necklace of around 7 mm
- Over 10,000 yen : High-quality large freshwater pearl necklace or ring
How to buy at a discount
You can get even better deals on freshwater pearls by taking advantage of online stores and sale periods. Another way is to choose outlet items or set products.
Choose inexpensive but high-quality freshwater pearls and use them to create jewelry that you can enjoy for a long time.