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The 5 Virtues of Pearls
The beauty and value of pearls are defined by five key virtues: Lustre, Complexion, Shape, Colour, and Size. Each virtue plays a significant role in determining a pearl's uniqueness and allure.
Lustre
Lustre is the defining feature of a pearl’s visual appeal. It refers to the glowing, reflective shine that pearls possess, the result of light interacting with the layers of nacre. Pearls with exceptional lustre will show a deep, mirror-like glow that reveals the quality and thickness of their nacre. The more vibrant the lustre, the more valuable the pearl.
Complexion
The complexion of a pearl refers to the surface quality, encompassing both blemishes and grain structure. While perfect pearls with flawless surfaces are rare, these imperfections give each pearl its individual character. Blemishes like spots, wrinkles, or surface marks can influence the pearl’s value, but many pearls are valued for their unique, natural charm.
Shape
The shape of a pearl is a critical factor in determining its quality and rarity. The most prized and valuable pearls are perfectly round, but there are many other beautiful shapes, such as drop, button, baroque, and circle. Baroque pearls, with their free-form shapes, are particularly unique and sought after for their distinct, organic appearance. Each shape tells its own story, adding to the pearl’s individuality.
Colour
A pearl’s colour is shaped by the oyster species and its environment, and can vary widely, from the whites and soft golds of South Sea pearls to the rich hues of Tahitian blacks and the delicate pastels of Freshwater pearls. The range of overtones—such as pink, blue, green, and silver—further enhances the colour profile, making it a key factor in the pearl’s overall beauty and appeal.
Size
Size is often considered last in the evaluation of a pearl, but it remains a major contributor to its value. Larger pearls are rarer and tend to have higher value, though size can be more important in certain pearl types. The size of a pearl is measured in millimetres, with irregularly shaped baroque pearls requiring different measurement methods. Larger pearls often have thicker nacre, contributing to their lustre and overall quality.
