Pure says: An Icy January Bloom
Jewelry by J Zheng
Happy 2025!! A brand new year, a new beginning ... it's exhilarating, isn't it? We seem to be off to a bit of a rocky start nationally, but I think it's important to still try and focus on the wondrous beauty all around us every day.
One of the most beautiful things we can focus on in the Jewelry Industry is obviously the natural wonders that are gemstones and of course, Pearls! At Pure, we tend to focus almost solely on cultured pearls (obviously - it's our bread and butter!), but every once in awhile, I like to explore the world of natural pearls and marvel at these incomparable gifts from Mother Nature.
In this post, I'll tackle some of the more well known beauties (Conch pearls, I'm looking at you!) but I definitely want to highlight some of the rarer, and more obscure natural pearls of the world for all of us to enjoy.
Onto the show!
Iridescent Abalone snail shells - aren't they gorgeous??
Abalone natural pearls are mesmerizing and exceptionally rare gems formed in the abalone mollusk, a type of marine gastropod found along the rocky coastal waters of regions like California, New Zealand, Japan, and South Africa.
Unlike traditional pearls formed in oysters or mussels, abalone pearls are non-nacreous but are infamous for their vibrant, iridescent colors, including brilliant shades of blue, green, pink, purple, and even gold, often blending together in a way that resembles the shifting hues of a rainbow. This unique and vivid coloration makes abalone pearls stand out as some of the most visually striking gems in the world.
Matched Abalone pearl "shark tooth" pair courtesy of Kojima Pearls. "Dancer" Abalone pearl and Sapphire Pendant by Kirk Milette Jewelry, CA.
Melo pearls are extraordinary and highly coveted gems formed in the Melo volute, a large sea snail found in the warm waters of Southeast Asia, particularly near Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, and the South China Sea.
Unlike traditional pearls formed in oysters or mussels, Melo pearls are non-nacreous, meaning they do not have the iridescent layers of nacre. Instead, they boast a unique, porcelain-like luster and stunning natural colors that range from light beige to vibrant orange, with deep orange being the most prized. Over time, these pearls may develop a softer, creamy hue due to their organic composition.
Throughout history, the Chinese revered these singular pearls as symbols of wealth, status, and natural beauty. Melo pearls, formed in the Melo melo sea snail, were revered, particularly among Chinese royalty and nobility, who prized their vibrant orange hues and large, unique forms.
In Chinese tradition, pearls have long been associated with wisdom, purity, and the moon, and Melo pearls were often regarded as treasures of great value and mystical significance. Today, they continue to captivate collectors and jewelers for their rarity, vivid colors, and connection to the rich cultural heritage of China.
Pair of exceptional orange-colored Melo Pearls courtesy of Kari Natural Pearls
American Freshwater natural pearls are rare and beautiful gems that form naturally in Freshwater mussels found in rivers, lakes, and streams across the United States, particularly in regions like the Mississippi River Valley and Tennessee.
These pearls are formed without human intervention, making them true products of nature. They are typically non-nacreous or partially nacreous, with a range of unique shapes, sizes, and surface textures. Colors vary widely, from classic white and cream to soft pink, lavender, yellow, and even metallic hues, giving them a distinct and diverse charm.
What makes American Freshwater pearls so special is their deep connection to our history and the natural environment. Native Americans were among the first to value these pearls for adornment and ceremonial use, and they were later coveted during the 19th and early 20th centuries as part of the U.S. pearl boom.
Their rarity stems from their organic formation, which occurs by chance when a natural irritant enters the mussel. Today, due to overharvesting and environmental changes, finding an American freshwater natural pearl is increasingly rare, enhancing its allure. Each pearl is a unique creation, celebrated for its individuality and as a symbol of the rich biodiversity of North America’s waterways.
The Tiffany & Co. American Freshwater Pearl Flower Brooch pictured above is the Chrysanthemum Brooch, created in 1904 by Tiffany's chief jewelry designer, G. Paulding Farnham, who fell in love with American Freshwater pearls! This piece is an iconic pearl jewelry design that reverberates throughout American pearl jewelry history.
This brooch showcases a chrysanthemum flower, meticulously crafted using natural freshwater pearls sourced from the Mississippi River. The pearls, often referred to as "dogtooth" pearls due to their distinctive shapes, are arranged to emulate the intricate petals of the chrysanthemum, highlighting Farnham's ability to blend natural elements with artistic design.
These brooch is particularly significant with its use of American Freshwater pearls, which were abundant in the early 1900s, particularly in the Mississippi River Valley.
Today, these brooches are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, symbolizing a blend of natural beauty and exquisite craftsmanship that is emblematic of Tiffany & Co.'s heritage.
XO,
Ashley M.
This pendant features a gorgeous pink 15mm high quality Freshwater Baroque pearl, hand picked for its luster and unique overtones. The pearl is mounted on the finest 14K gold chain with circular bail at the top. The pendant is packaged in a beautiful jewelry box, perfect for gifting.
Each pearl purchase comes nestled in our signature Little Black Jewelry Box and is accompanied with a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed Pearl Care Instructions and Pearl Polishing Cloth. View our entire collection of freshwater pearls, pearl necklaces and pearl earrings
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