Characteristics of Pearls
The pearl is shaped as nature intends, and is therefore superior to all other gems which emerge in raw form and rely on the hand of the jeweller to gain their identity.
With the pearl, natural beauty is the overriding factor in
selection. And because beauty is in the eye of the beholder,
different pearls captivate different people.
The distinctive characteristic, or great beauty of a true pearl (natural and cultivated) is its lustre (or orient). Lustre is a subdued iridescence, as opposed to the glittering brilliance of the diamond, and is the most important consideration when selecting a pearl. Lustre should be bright - never dull. Without lustre it does not rank as a gem pearl, no matter how perfect its form or beautiful its colour. Because South Sea pearls have a thick creamy nacre, they are noted for their rich silky lustre, and are thus valued most highly.
