Shell pearls are a type of man-made pearl that is made using the inner shell of a mollusk. These pearls are made using a special manufacturing method where a small piece of shell material or bead is used as the center. Over time, layers of nacre – a lustrous substance that gives pearls their shine – are added to the surface, creating a smooth and shiny pearl.
Shell pearls are very popular in jewelry because they cost much less than natural pearls, yet they look beautiful. They come in many different sizes, shapes and colors. Another advantage is that they are stronger and less likely to be damaged than natural pearls, making them suitable for daily use.
These pearls are commonly used in many jewelry designs such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets and fashion accessories. They are usually strung on silk or nylon cord and are often combined with metals such as gold or silver to create stylish and detailed jewelry pieces.
What are shell pearls?
Shell pearls are laboratory-grown pearls that are made from oyster shell material. Many careful steps are taken in this process. The main material used for the pearl core comes from sea shells, which are shaped, coated, and polished until they resemble finished pearls. An important ingredient used is called mother-of-pearl beads, which give the pearls the right weight, strength, and durability. Interestingly, the materials used in shell pearls are similar to those used in cultured pearls.
Why are shell pearls a better choice?
There are many reasons why pearl lovers around the world choose shell pearls. The first reason is affordability. Wearing pearl jewelry is no longer limited to wealthy buyers as shell pearls are available at an affordable price to almost everyone. While some high-quality shell pearls can be more expensive, they are generally cheaper than natural pearls.
Another reason is their consistent quality. Natural and cultured pearls are rare, and perfectly shaped pearls can be difficult to find. Because shell pearls are carefully crafted by hand and technology, manufacturers can control their size, shape, and color, creating pearls that look almost perfect.
Modern production methods also make shell pearls very durable. They retain their luster and color for a long time and are less affected by sweat, perfume, or cleaning products. Each pearl undergoes detailed shaping, coating, and strict quality checks before reaching the market.
How to Identify Shell Pearls
Dark pearls, whether natural or cultured, usually exhibit a soft iridescent sheen called orient. Shell pearls often use a special synthetic coating to mimic this effect. Some imitation pearls that do not contain natural pearls or mother of pearl are sometimes incorrectly sold as shell pearls, so buyers should be careful.
A simple test is to gently rub a pearl against the edge of your upper front teeth or gently rub two pearls together. Real pearls usually feel a bit rough or gritty, while fake pearls feel completely smooth.
How are shell pearls made?
Shell pearls are made by grinding the inner layers of oyster shells into a fine powder. This powder is then shaped into a round or other pearl shape. After shaping, the pearls are dyed and coated with layers of natural pearl shell to give them shine and strength.
This process allows manufacturers to completely control the final appearance of the pearl, making it uniform in size, shape, and color. A single freshwater oyster can produce many pearls, making this type of pearl a practical and affordable alternative to jewelry that looks like natural pearls.
Are shell pearls real pearls?
No, shell pearls are not considered real pearls. They are made to look like natural pearls. Although they are made using real shell material, they are not naturally found inside oysters or mollusks. However, they are not plastic pearls either. Shell pearls look more realistic and attractive than plastic imitations, although they are usually more expensive than basic synthetic pearls.
Shell Pearls vs. Natural Pearls: What’s the Difference?
Let’s understand the differences between these two types of pearls based on origin, appearance, size, color, durability, and price.
Origin
Shell Pearls:
Shell pearls are man-made pearls made from the inner shell of a mollusk. The round beads are coated with layers of crushed nacre (mother of pearl) to give the appearance of a natural pearl.
Natural Pearls:
Freshwater pearls form inside oysters in lakes and rivers and are grown in pearl farms. They develop when a tiny particle enters the oyster and becomes coated with layers of nacre over time.
Appearance
Shell Pearls:
They appear almost perfect due to controlled production. Shell pearls are uniform in size, shape, and color, and their surface is smooth, shiny, and flawless.
Natural Pearls:
These pearls come in natural shapes such as round, oval or irregular. Small marks or pits may be visible, highlighting their natural origin.
Size and Shape
Shell Pearls:
Typically range from 8 mm to 16 mm and are very uniform, with a balanced shape and a shiny finish.
Natural Pearls:
Typically range from 7 mm to 12 mm, sometimes up to 20 mm. They appear in a variety of shapes such as coin, button, teardrop, stick and are rarely perfectly round.
Color and Luster
Shell Pearls:
Available in many colors due to their color and finish, including classic white and darker shades such as black, green or blue. They have a bright, mirror-like shine.
Natural Pearls:
Naturally found in white, pink, lavender, and peach tones. Their luster is softer and more natural.
Durability
Shell Pearls:
Strong and durable due to protective coatings. They resist sweat, perfume, and daily wear, making them suitable for regular use.
Natural Pearls:
More delicate and require careful handling as environmental exposure can reduce their luster over time.
Price
Shell Pearls:
They are inexpensive because they are manufactured, giving a pearl-like appearance at a budget-friendly price.
Natural Pearls:
Typically more expensive than shell pearls but cheaper than many saltwater pearls. The price depends on size, luster, shape, surface quality, and nacre thickness.
Further Reading: Timeless Beauty of Turkish Jewelry: A Journey Through Culture, Craft, and Creativity
Conclusion
In conclusion, pearls – whether they occur naturally in the ocean or are carefully crafted – are much more than simple adornments. They represent a wondrous transformation where an oyster transforms an unwanted particle into something beautiful. Whether natural or cultured, pearls remind us how, over time, something ordinary can become extraordinary.
Each pearl carries a story of patience and growth, showing how care and time can create something precious. What begins as a small irritation eventually becomes a symbol of beauty and perfection.
So whenever you wear a pearl, think about the long journey behind it – the quiet underwater process and gentle transformation. Pearls are not just a symbol of beauty but a reminder that beauty often comes from patience and change.
