- Origin of Pearls
Freshwater pearls are organic gemstones primarily produced within freshwater mussels and pearl mussels. Pearls are formed as a result of the endocrine action of the mollusks, creating mineral beads containing calcium carbonate, which are aggregates of numerous tiny calcite crystals. - Historical Cultivation
Freshwater pearl cultivation has a long history in China. As early as the Song Dynasty, China initiated artificial pearl cultivation. “Wenchang Za Lu” recorded a method of cultivating pearls by placing pearls into the open shells of clams and mussels, forming pearls after multiple water changes. - Evolution of Cultivation Techniques
The techniques for freshwater pearl cultivation have undergone several transformations. The initial “bottom cultivation method” placed pearl mussels directly on the bottom of ponds, which was not conducive to the quality of the pearls. Later, the “string suspension cultivation method” and “suspension cultivation method” were developed, hanging pearl mussels on fixed horizontal bars or suspending them from rafts, improving the efficiency and quality of the pearls. - Modern Cultivation Methods
Modern freshwater pearl cultivation employs more advanced techniques, such as “drip irrigation cultivation” technology, which uses an automated network system for precise feeding of pearl mussels, effectively avoiding pollution during the cultivation process. Additionally, ecological cultivation techniques are increasingly valued, such as “fish and clam + aquatic plants” and “fish and clam + economic crops” models, which improve both the quality of the pearls and protect the ecological environment. - Cultivation Cycle
The growth cycle of freshwater pearls generally lasts 3 to 5 years. Early cultivation methods attempted to shorten the cultivation cycle but found that it affected the yield and quality of the pearls. Therefore, extending the cultivation time to two, three, or even five years can cultivate larger, rounder, and more lustrous pearls.
6.Seed Insertion Technique
Insertion is a key step in pearl cultivation. It is usually carried out in the spring and autumn seasons by cutting a small piece from the mantle of the clam and inserting it into the connective tissue of the outer mantle of another clam, forming a pearl sac and producing a pearl.
- Water Quality Management
Water quality management is crucial in pearl cultivation. Different water quality control measures are needed according to the different development stages of the pearl mussels, ensuring sufficient dissolved oxygen and fresh, slow-moving water. - Pearl Harvesting
Pearl harvesting is usually carried out at the end of the cultivation cycle. Pearls are extracted by opening the clams. The development of modern technology has made this process more efficient and environmentally friendly. - Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development
In recent years, freshwater pearl cultivation has increasingly focused on environmental protection and sustainable development. Through ecological transformation and new cultivation techniques, pollution to the environment has been reduced, while the quality and added value of the pearls have been improved. - Market and Economic Impact
Freshwater pearl cultivation not only drives local economic development but also promotes the prosperity of related industries. For example, Zhuji City in Zhejiang Province is known as the “Hometown of Chinese Pearls,” with freshwater pearl production accounting for more than half of the national total output.100% of our pearls are real pearls which are also freshwater cultured pearls.
Cultured Pearls Value
The worth of cultured pearls fluctuates significantly due to several key factors such as size, shape, luster, surface quality, nacre thickness, and color. Pearls that are larger, well-rounded, possess high luster, and exhibit minimal surface flaws tend to command higher value. Additionally, the type of mollusk involved in cultivation and the method employed also influence their overall valuation.
Are Cultured Pearls Real?
Yes, cultured pearls are genuine pearls—they are made of the same substances as natural pearls. The primary distinction between cultured and natural pearls lies in their creation process. Natural pearls form without human interference, whereas cultured pearls are started by human intervention. However, cultured pearls are not artificial or synthetic; they are authentic gemstones produced by living organisms in controlled environments. Today, the majority of pearls available for purchase are cultured, as natural pearls are extremely scarce.