EDUCATION
Understanding Different Pearl Varieties
With a rich history of 78 years, we take great pride in offering the finest selection of exquisite pearl jewellery, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings to name a few. In this brief overview, we will explore five distinct pearl varieties that we proudly stock within our Hogans pearl collection. These include South Sea, Tahitian, Baroque, Mabe, Freshwater and Baroque Pearls.
South Sea Pearls
Among the most coveted of their kind, South Sea Pearls are renowned for their impressive size and lustrous beauty. Although South Sea Pearls are farmed throughout Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines, our network of pearl farmers culture their pearls in the ocean waters off the coast of Broome, Western Australia. The unique oyster species that produce South Sea Pearls can accommodate larger nuclei, resulting in pearls ranging from 9mm to an extraordinary 20mm. Known for their warm, golden hues, their rarity and grandeur make them a cherished possession for pearls connoisseurs.
Tahitian Pearls
Originating from the pristine waters of French Polynesia, Tahitian Pearls are celebrated for their rich and exotic colors. Their naturally occurring shades include dark green, peacock, silver, and deep black, often exhibiting stunning overtones. The oysters that cultivate Tahitian Pearls have a distinct ability to absorb surrounding minerals, giving these pearls their striking hues. Their mesmerising shades and larger average size, ranging from 8mm to 16mm, make them a captivating choice for contemporary jewellery designs.
Mabe Pearls
Mabe pearls, also known as blister pearls, possess a distinct hemispherical shape. These pearls are cultivated by placing a flat nucleus against the inner shell of the oyster, resulting in a half-pearl that is flat on one side. Mabe Pearls are highly valued for their large size and smooth, lustrous surface. Their unique shape makes them an excellent choice for earrings, pendants, and rings, providing a comfortable fit and a striking visual impact.
Freshwater Pearls
Freshwater Pearls are renowned for their affordability, versatility, and abundance. Cultivated in freshwater lakes and rivers, all over the World, these pearls offer a wide range of colors, including white, pink, lavender, and even metallic shades. Their smaller sizes, typically ranging from 2mm to 12mm, make them ideal for both classic and contemporary designs. At Hogans, we stock a select range of freshwater pearl jewellery, and as an affordable option they make for the perfect gift.
Baroque Pearls
Characterised by their irregular and non-spherical shapes, baroque pearls exude a unique charm that sets them apart from other pearl varieties. These pearls can be found in freshwater and saltwater environments, and their shapes can vary from asymmetrical to elongated and even abstract. Their natural forms inspire creative jewellery designs, offering a touch of artistic expression. Baroque Pearls have gained popularity due to their individuality and the stunning organic appeal they bring to jewellery pieces.
