Old Hollywood glamour? Sleek minimalism with a modern edge? Whatever aesthetic you’re going for, pearls are your new best friend. From the simplicity of a single pearl drop earring to the extravagance of layered pearl necklaces, this material can do it all.
Our treated freshwater cultured pearl jewellery is here to add the finishing touch to your jewellery collection. From colours to care guidance, get clued up on all things pearls with our freshwater pearl jewellery guide.
What are treated freshwater pearls?
When do freshwater cultured pearls become treated? Once harvested, the freshwater cultured pearls used in Pandora jewellery are treated to enhance their colour, lustre and appearance. Like natural pearls, our treated freshwater cultured pearls contain nacre throughout.
How are freshwater pearls made?
Let’s take a look at how natural freshwater pearls are made. When an irritant gets into the shell of the oyster or other mollusc, it begins to coat it with many layers of a pearly substance called nacre, eventually creating a lustrous pearl.
Unlike a natural pearl, a freshwater cultured pearl starts with human intervention. A skilled pearl technician gently inserts an irritant into the shell of a freshwater mussel. The mussels are then put into nets and submerged in the lakes surrounding the pearl farm.
The irritant in the shell grows to form a pearl sac in which the mother of pearl (nacre) is deposited layer upon layer until a pearl is formed. The longer the molluscs are left alone, the larger the pearl will grow. A freshwater mussel can create up to 50 cultured pearls at a time.
What’s the difference between cultured and freshwater pearls?
The term “cultured pearl” means genuine pearls produced with human assistance, as described above. There are two types of cultured pearls: freshwater and saltwater.
Freshwater pearls are harvested in lakes, rivers or ponds, while saltwater pearls come from the ocean. As saltwater pearls are more expensive, freshwater cultured pearls are great for everyday jewellery.
How to tell if freshwater pearls are real
With technology advancing each year, it can be difficult to tell whether jewellery is made from real freshwater pearls or fake man-made beads. Here’s how to tell if freshwater pearls are real:
Our treated freshwater pearl jewellery
Want to keep your sterling silver jewellery looking brand new? Searching for statement or everyday pearl pieces? Pandora treated freshwater pearl jewellery is here to take your looks to the next level.
As the birthstone for June, pearls also make a fitting birthday gift for friends or family. Our tips below to get started.
Pearl Necklaces
We love the look of </g>, whether you choose sterling silver or 14k gold-plated styles.
Pearl bracelets
Find thoughtfully designed pieces that speak to your individual styled bangles with pearl charms.
Pearl earrings
A simple pair of </g> are the perfect finishing touch for any occasion. Style your way for a look as unique as you are.