Pearl History
Mitsubishi began its journey into pearl culture in 1916 with South Sea pearl oyster, following the commercialization of the technology patent. By 1931, the project showed promise but faced challenges after the death of Tatsuhei Mise. Though efforts resumed post-war, the project was halted at the onset of WWII before substantial pearl production could be realized. After the war, new ventures in Sea pearl farming emerged in the early 1950s at Kuri Bay and Port Essington in Australia, with companies leveraging expertise from the original Mitsubishi endeavors. Today, Kuri Bay is home to one of the largest and most renowned pearl farms, operated by Paspaley, the leading producer of South Sea pearls globally.
Courtesy of "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl#History"
Australian South Sea Pearl
Discover the enchanting world of Australian South Sea Pearls, sourced from the pristine waters of Australia's remote North West coast. The majestic Pinctada maxima oyster, known as the King of pearl oysters, produces pearls celebrated for their unparalleled beauty,, and quality. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, Australia's pearl beds remain vibrant today as they were 150 years ago during the Victorian Pearl era. Modern pearl farmers employ sustainable practices, nurturing each oyster with care to ensure these treasures continue to thrive for generations to come.
Courtesy of "www.australiansouthseapearls.com"
Tahitian Black Pearl
Tahitian pearls, often known as black pearls, are treasured for their rarity and unique beauty. The culturing process limits their production, as each oyster can yield one pearl at a time, unlike freshwater mussels that can produce multiple pearls simultaneously Historically, black pearls were exceptionally rare, with natural black pearls formed in white pearl oysters scarce. Today, thanks to advancements in pearl culture technology, the Pinctada margaritifera oysters found in Tahiti and various Pacific islands are extensively cultivated to produce these exquisite gems.
Courtesy of "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl#History"
Beauty of natural colour and lustre
The beauty of a fine quality pearls is revealed the moment it is removed from the oyster. Such a pearl requires neither colour nor lustre enhancement.
As with other gemstones, lower quality pearls are commonly subjected to various processes to improve their appearance. Light processing will improve the lustre of a lower quality pearl. This type of treatment does not negatively affect the pearl's structure but the lustre may fade after a few years.
Heavy chemical treatment may adversely affect the physical integrity of a pearl and can sometimes impart a coarse and chalky look and feel, diminishing the quality and appearance of the pearl over time. Chemical enhancement is an acceptable practice when properly performed but enhancements must always be discovered by the vendor as they do affect a pearl's value.
Courtesy of "www.australiansouthseapearls.com" / Images:Fabian Heinemann/Wikipedia
Electron microscopy image of a fractured surface of nacre
Pearl X-ray image (Nucleus and nacre)