The Australian pearl: characteristics of the most authoritative natural golden pearl in the world
Physical and Chemical Characteristics of the Pearl
Australian Pearls, like all natural pearls, are composed of concentric layers of calcium carbonate crystals (aragonite and calcite) held together by a protein called conchiolin.
The proportions are approximately 92% calcium carbonate crystals, 6% conchiolin, and 2% water. The water component plays an important role in keeping the conchiolin hydrated, allowing it to perform its role of aggregating the calcium carbonate crystals.
The refractive indices are those specific to aragonite (from 1.530 to 1.685), the average density is 2.70, and the hardness varies from 2.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale.
Origin of Australian pearls
Australian Pearls constitute one of the most valuable niches in the world of natural pearls and are born from the biochemical activity of large pearl oysters: the Pinctada maxima.
These mollusks can reach up to 30 cm in diameter and inhabit the warm and clear waters between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, in the intertropical zone. They are bivalves that produce pearls of considerable size.
The cultivation techniques follow the classic methods used for Japanese Akoya and Tahitian pearls, so these are pearls with nuclei, but the cultivation times are longer and it can take up to three years for the formation process of this gem of organic origin to be completed. These mollusks are raised in floating farms, in protected areas, and undergo constant and very accurate checks to ensure good health.
They are among the largest pearls, measuring from 9 millimeters up to, in rare cases, 20 millimeters! The thickness of the nacre sometimes exceeds 6 millimeters, although it normally ranges from 2 to 4 millimeters.
Color of Australian pearls
Pinctada maxima are characterized by two robust valves that can have an upper inner margin, called the lip, of golden or silvery color, known as gold lip and silver lip. The predominant color tone of the pearls produced by them derives from this chromatic characteristic. Australian pearls can be white, gold, and silver, and in addition to the value of the dominant background color, there are often hints of color, called overtone, which can range from pink to green.
A particular iridescence may also be visible, known as orient, caused by the dispersion of light interacting with the aragonite crystals. The more intense and uniform the distribution of the orient, the greater the attractiveness and value acquired by the Australian pearl.
Price and value of Australian pearls
The productivity of marine pearl oysters is one of the crucial factors that determines the value of Australian pearls. It is rather low, considering that a mollusk is capable of producing one or maximum two pearls at a time!
Shape is another factor that significantly influences the value of Australian pearls, with the most appreciated and expensive being the spherical shape, also because it is the most difficult to obtain. Next come the semi-round gems, and all those "symmetric" shapes such as button, onion, drop, and oval shapes. Although not symmetrical, baroque and semi-baroque shapes have an undeniable charm appreciated by many.
Another element to consider is the color, where the predominant hue, overtone, and orient are taken into consideration: when these three factors coexist harmoniously and attractively, the price of an Australian pearl increases exponentially.
Pearl connoisseurs know that luster also contributes to defining the quality and beauty of a pearl, as well as the surface conditions. All these factors mainly depend on the thickness of the nacre, which will be greater in pearls that remain longer in the oyster.
Harmonization in necklaces or strands of Australian pearls is also sought, which materializes in a careful analysis of the uniformity of diameters, shapes, color, luster, and position of the hole in these fabulous gems.
Jewelry with Australian pearls
An enchanting gem for its stunning brilliance, especially when presented in its distinctive golden hue, the Australian pearl has always enchanted and seduced. Characterized by a unique charm, it can easily be recognized by an expert even with the naked eye.
Inspiring the best maisons, it stands majestically in every piece of jewelry with its typical aura that no other gem in the world can emit. We must admit, its incredible charm has enchanted us for years now, which is why whenever possible, we try to ensure the best specimens to present to our audience at prices that are more than competitive given the lack of intermediaries!
Each gem is selected by us directly from the best farms to be 100% sure about the quality of the gem offered. In our online catalog, you can admire fabulous jewelry with Australian pearls that stand out for their great prestige. These gems are able to illuminate every complexion, enhancing whoever wears them in the role of a high-quality gem.
Our jewelry in australian pearls, rigorously made in 18kt gold or 925‰ silver, features authentic and top-quality Australian pearls; you can choose from rich necklaces, important chokers, elegant bracelets, and splendid rings, as well as special pendants to pair with the right pair of earrings, choosing from simple studs or delving into more sophisticated models.
Our suggestion is to follow the numerous tutorials on our YouTube channel where we explain in detail all the steps to follow to create your jewelry, in total simplicity. We have also included precise references to the tools and materials essential for each work, which can be found in the "DIY" category.
Cleaning and care of Australian pearls
Some say that by taking care of a pearl, it will repay you with all its shine and beauty for eternity. Indeed, this is a fact. Think for a moment about how many pearl jewelry pieces are passed down from generation to generation, for decades, yet they still retain a deeply genuine and natural appearance. Trust us, we know pearls!
Below, we reveal some simple tips to preserve Australian pearls in excellent condition.
Firstly, if any doubts arise, it's always best to seek the advice of an expert before attempting any cleaning actions to avoid irreparably damaging the gems. For a surface cleaning, our advice is to use a soft cloth dampened with a little water to gently remove any dirt, such as dust. To best preserve your jewelry with Australian pearls, we suggest storing them in a dedicated container away from heat sources.
Keep in mind that sealing a pearl hermetically can cause it to dehydrate and consequently ruin. Therefore, remember to handle and wear them occasionally.
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