For beautiful pearls, the most important factors are luster and nacre thickness. Luster deepens with each magical layering of Nature's "nacre", the same glowing iridescent and pearly substance which lines the oyster shell. Nacre thickness is basically determined by the length of time the pearl is in the oyster... 2 to 3 years... and the natural environment which surrounds the healthy oyster. During this period, the thousands of layers of nacre necessary to create a pearl of the highest quality and greatest value are formed.

Tiny marks seen on pearls are part of their natural texture, and do not detract from their beauty or value unless excessive. Elegant lustrous pearls reflect their colors as glowing inner lights. There is an infinite variety of subtle shadings in pearls... cream, green, blue and pinks. The most popular are whitish and pinkish rose, as these are the shades that flatter many skin tones.

Shapes and Kinds of Pearls
Since Nature is the "master sculpture" of every pearl created in the world's ocean waters, each has its unique characteristics... a pattern that sets it apart as a creation rare and wonderful. The round or spherical pearl is the rarest of all . . and the most in demand. The South Sea pearls are sought for their large size and beautiful colorings. Of special interest are the lovely silvery gem-pearls from the warm waters of Australia, Burma and the Philippines, while from Tahiti and Okinawa come the very valuable black pearls of rare size and colorings. It may take several harvest years to collect enough perfectly matched gems for one necklace. Pearls of exotic shapes... teardrops, oval, button and baroque... lend themselves to the creation of exquisite jewelry designs. Fresh water pearls, cultivated in various lakes and recognized by their elongated free-form shapes, are also used extensively.

How to Care for Your Pearl Jewelry
Keep in mind that pearls can be affected by harsh perfume and cosmetics, and the natural body oils that tend to build up with constant wear. It is wise to remove your pearl jewelry when applying perfume, lotions, cosmetics or when bathing. To keep your pearls looking beautifully lustrous, wipe them with a soft cloth after each wearing. If your pearls become very soiled, they can be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Constant wear can weaken the necklace string. Therefore, it is advisable to have your necklace or bracelet restrung once a year to keep it looking beautiful.

Guide to Pearl Necklaces
The length of necklace is measured in inches. Please see the guide for proper lengths. Popular lengths for uniform necklaces are approximately:
Choker 16 inches
Princess 18 inches
Matinee 22 inches
Opera 30 inches
Rope or Lariat 40 inches (or longer)

Diamond in a Pearl: The Story of Diamond in a Pearl
When an oyster swallows a grain of sand it feels the discomfort, so it begins to ease the pain by applying a coat of nacre (pearl). It is during this healing process that it creates a beautiful pearl. It is rather ironic to think that something so beautiful can be created out of so much discomfort. This irony is like life itself. It is easy to love in good times, but it takes courage to love through the discomfort of our lives. It is this understanding, this virtue, that has been my teacher, my healer, and has given me courage and a sense of hope. "Diamond in a Pearl" is an expression of this understanding. The diamond represents the grain of sand and the pearl evokes an aura of courage, love, and healing that is embedded deep within the soul. It is this unique transformation that has given birth to "Diamond in a Pearl", the symbol of love.

- Chi Galatea Huynh

Come see the fine collection of Diamond in a Pearl jewelry, now available at Yeltons Fine Jewelry or see more online at www.diamondinapearl.com.