Where Do Pearls Come From?

Pearls are remarkable because they are formed by living creatures. Some grow in saltwater oysters; others grow in freshwater mussels.

A pearl begins inside a mollusk. In nature, this can happen without human help. Most pearls used in jewellery today are cultured: a pearl farmer carefully starts the process, and the mollusk forms the pearl over time.

Different mollusks produce different kinds of pearls. Freshwater mussels give us pearls in a lovely variety of shapes and colours. Akoya oysters are known for classic white pearls with a bright lustre. South Sea pearl oysters produce white and golden pearls, while black-lipped oysters produce Tahitian pearls in dark shades that can show green, blue or purple tones.

That variety is part of what draws me to pearls. Each one has its own shape, colour and character, making it a pleasure to choose the right pearl for a piece of jewellery.

— Alexandra Rose Designs