Gem of the Week: Freshwater Pearls

Pearls are organic gemstones. Spherical pearls are the most rare and come closest to perfect roundness. Pearls aid in physical healing, creativity and anger management. Color: Pink, Silver, Cream, Golden, Green, Blue and Black. Can be color enhanced!


   

Freshwater Pearls have been important since medieval Europe, so much so that it drove a species of fresh water mussel to endangerment. Freshwater Pearls are almost exclusively produced in China thought there are a few very minor producers in Japan and the United States. 
Freshwater Pearls are grafted by slicing a bit of tissue from the mantle of the freshwater mussel. This tissue is then inserted into the upper valve of the mussel and then left to become a pearl. There are various techniques for creating different shapes of pearl but it's is never certain exactly how they will come out as Freshwater Pearls are organic. The Pearls are then polished and are ready to be sold.