Tahitian Pearls: Saltwater Sensations

The creation of Tahitian pearls does not actually happen in Tahiti. Tahitian pearls actually come from the lagoons of French Polynesia. However, Tahiti is a huge trading center for Tahitian pearls.

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Tahitian pearls are also known as Tahitian black pearls. The color of these pearls is not actually always black (black is rare). Color can range from silver, to pale gray, to dark charcoal. Different hues are evident on top of the original color, sometimes appearing purplish, greenish, or bluish. Different colors of Tahitian pearls are created as light passes through the layers of the pearls, deteriorating as it gets deeper.

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Natural black pearls occur very rarely. These have a slight reddish hue when examined under ultraviolet lighting. Imitation black pearls do not show the reddish hue. Only about one in 15,000 oysters has a pearl inside. Most pearls that are found in jewelry are cultivated, or grown, and are commonly known as cultured pearls. Tahitian pearls are cultivated from Pinctada margaritifera oysters. These oysters have black lips and are quite large, sometimes reaching one foot or more in diameter. They typically produce larger pearls than other oysters.

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The cultivation of Tahitian pearls occurs in French Polynesian waters. The first culturing experiments in those waters occurred in 1961, in the lagoon waters of Bora Bora. Black-lipped oysters are found in French Polynesian waters, attached to coral. Only a few of the many oysters that are cultivated and cared for will create gem quality pearls.

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Tahitian pearls are bigger than Chinese or Japanese cultured pearls. Tahitian pearls usually range in size from eight millimeters to sixteen millimeters. The larger the pearl is, the more valuable. As a result, Tahitian pearls are usually more valuable than Chinese or Japanese cultured pearls, but not quite as expensive as South Sea pearls, which come from Pinctada maxima oysters that are harder to find. Pearls are graded on factors such as size, shape, thickness, and luster. Round pearls are the most desired. Tahitian pearls, along with Akoya pearls and South Sea pearls, are saltwater pearls.

 

There are some ways to distinguish an imitation pearl from a real pearl. Imitation pearls have one dull color. Natural or cultured Tahitian pearls have their base color plus a hue that could be bluish, purplish, or greenish. Also, look at the drill holes of each pearl. If the holes appear rough and un-even, it’s probably an imitation that has been mass-drilled. The holes of real pearls are individually drilled. In addition, Tahitian pearls weigh more than imitation pearls.

 

Tahitian pearls are soft and can therefore be easily scratched or cracked. When storing your Tahitian pearls, wrap them in a soft cloth to separate them from your other jewelry. Cosmetics, hairspray, and perfumes can reduce the luster and brilliance of a pearl. It is wise to put on your pearls after you’ve applied the aforementioned products. After you’re through wearing your Tahitian pearls, wipe them off with a soft, damp cloth. From time to time, it’s also a good idea to wash the Tahitian pearls with mild soap and a soft cloth.

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Pearl is the birthstone for June, but pearls can be worn any month. Tahitian pearls can help you achieve the look of elegance, sophistication, and luxuriousness. They can be used in necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and pendants. Tahitian pearls, when designed in jewelry with diamond accents, are particularly glamorous.

 

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Tahiti

 

www.tahitian.info

Tahiti paradise - travel & tourism guide

 

www.travelpearl.com

A guide to pearls and pearl farming in Tahiti, the Cook Islands, etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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