Understanding Pearl Color:
By: Kathy Abdelhak
Understanding Pearl Color:
The color of the pearl is an important factor when grading a pearl. The pearl has overtone and body color. The pearl comes in a variety of colors from white to black. The pearl comes from a living creature this contributes to the unique way the color of the pearl develops
Body color:
The body color is the main color of the pearl. White, silver, gold, blue, green, cream, and even black. The body color is determined by the type of oyster or mollusk that the pearl came from, the condition of the waters, and sometimes the object that was put in the oyster can all have an effect on the out come of the pearl color. Certain oysters produce pearls of a certain color.
Over Tones:
Over tones are the translucent color over the top of the body color. These over tones alter the color of the pearl some what. The over tone will also add depth, and glow to the pearl.
Orient:
Means the iridescent colors witch glitter, the layers of nacre (mother of pearl) reflect the light through the many layers of nacre.
Many pearls are color treated this is used often with fresh water, akoya, and sometimes Tahitian pearls. The color is infused by a treatment known as dying, putting the pearls to irradiation. You can find out if a pearl is treated by looking down the drill hole you will be looking for concentrations of color which indicate the presence of dye.
Naturally black akoya, and fresh water pearls do not exist. If black pearls are offered of this variety they are always color treated.
For any one who is looking for a classic, and elegant piece of jewelry pearls are a must have jewelry stable that every women should have at least one stand in her jewelry collection.
Kathy Abdel-Hak is co-owner of N.J. Diamonds located in Dearborn, MI. For more information on diamonds and colored gem stones you can vist njdiamondsonline.com or N.J.Diamonds Tid Bits at njdiamonds.typepad.com.