South Sea Shell Pearls

One of my favorite discoveries this past year has to be the South Sea Shell Pearl. They are not to be confused with South Sea Pearls such as the Tahitian Pearl. South Sea Pearls are natural Pearls and because of their size and color are very expensive. The South Sea Shell Pearl is a wonderful alternative because of their quality and price, even though they are man made. I generally shy away from simulated Gemstones, but I have made a couple of exceptions and the Shell Pearls are one of them.

South Sea Shell Pearls are hand crafted from the shells of South Ocean pearl oysters and polished to a high luster. Natural South Sea or Tahitian pearls of this size and grade could cost up to $15,000.00 each, but these simulated Pearls look virtually identical, at a mere fraction of the price! Subtle variations in shape on each pearl, the gorgeous natural looking colors, and the heavy weight of the pearls contribute to the overall impression of natural South Sea Pearls. These Shell Pearls are starting to top the latest trends in fashion jewelry.

The process of making a Shell Pearl involves several different stages. The raw material for the base of the pearl is the sea shell, which is coated and polished to the final shape of the pearl. This element adds weight, value and durability to the pearl. In fact, the materials used in order to make shell pearls are the same materials from which cultured pearls are made. For South Sea Shell Pearls, a substance usually made of pulverized Mother of Pearl is applied to the base, allowed to dry, drilled, and then sold. The more layers there are, the more expensive the simulated Pearl.

Shell Pearls are a better choice for many reasons. The first is their price. That was the single most important reason why South Sea Shell Pearls were developed in Barcelona, Spain so many years ago. Majorca Pearls fall into the shell based category. The prices vary and some Shell Pearls are more expensive as a result of their excellent quality, but comparatively speaking Shell Pearls are still much easier and less expensive to buy.

The second reason is the quality of the South Sea Shell Pearl. Because the process is controlled by people rather than nature, it can be perfectly round with perfect luster, while the rarity of the Cultured Pearl not only makes it expensive, but also makes it hard to find with a perfect shape and size. The manual production of the Shell Pearl enables the manufacturer to determine the shape, size, and color of the pearl, thus making the final result seem perfect.

The modern technology of pearl production can also assure its durability. The Shell Pearl will always keep its shine and color, and will not be affected by sweat, perfume or detergents. The pearl in its marketing form is a result of a long process of shaping and coating, and intensive quality control inspection. Another reason for purchasing this product is the possibility of controlling its shape and color.

Although these Sea Shell Pearls are not genuine Pearls, they are in high demand by large numbers of consumers for their stunning similarity to that of the most expensive fine Pearls.



Multi-colored Pearl Necklace.

Beautiful White Pearl Necklace.