The use of pearls in jewelry is a firm favorite worldwide and pearl jewelry has become synonymous with elegance and class. It is definitely as much as an iconic gem as a diamond! With their different shapes and colors, freshwater pearls have become the go-to choice in creating not only the more elegant style of jewelry but also unique, funky pieces that appeal to the contemporary aesthetic. Now with fabulous freshwater pearls being widely available for purchase, jewelry makers and designers whether home based or in large jewelry design houses, have a plethora of different kinds to work with, at prices that are very affordable.
Freshwater pearls are found in mussels or oysters in fresh water bodies like rivers, lakes and ponds. However, the more widely available type we find today is the beautiful cultured freshwater varieties that are created with a special culturing technique. China has harvested these pearls since centuries and is now at the forefront of the cultured freshwater pearls business with over 95% of these pearls being produced here. These Chinese cultured pearls are in huge demand all over the world.
Cultured freshwater pearls are lower in price than the saltwater ones, making them a popular addition in any jewelry makers’ arsenal. However, a lower price does not mean a lower quality or attractiveness. Also since they come in a variety of shades and varying textures they have a different look from the usual smooth, round pearls. This variation in the types makes them extremely versatile additions for all kinds of jewelry and designs. You will now find a gorgeous plethora of freshwater pearls through web-based wholesalers and retailers that offer unimaginable varieties at prices that are super affordable.
Some of the varieties of cultured freshwater pearls you will find online that are great for jewelry making and design are button shape, coin shape, diamond shape, potato shape, rice shape, side drilled, top drilled, Keishi pearls and more. You will also find interesting shaped ones like star shaped, cross shaped and flat teardrop shaped cultured freshwater pearls. Another aspect of these pearls that lends itself perfectly to making interesting jewelry is the fact that they come in different natural and dyed colours like pink, peacock, green, bronze, grayish, bluish purplish etc. that can be used to match various accessories. You may also find single and multi-colored pearl strands, also with other beads and gemstones, which are ready to use.
The gleam and shine of cultured freshwater pearls from China and the textures are what make these so versatile a tool to create jewelry that ranges from romantic and elegant to edgy and modern, depending on how you use them and what color combinations you choose. The timeless quality of regular salt-water pearls is given a new, fun twist!