Over the last 30 years China has emerged as ground zero for new production and innovation in cultured pearls.  Ninety percent of pearls sold today are freshwater pearls from China.  The loosening of economic constraints and expansion of free market capitalism has transformed China into the wild west of pearling.  It is a decentralized market characterized by overproduction and a total absence of quality control.

Freshwater Souffle Pearls - 18" Strands $1,400-$2,500

Chinese freshwater pearls range from truly hideous and poor quality product to magnificent treasures.  Skilled buyers know the difference and can take advantage of market inefficiencies to acquire wondrous pearls at favorable prices.

You should not confuse the relative affordability of cultured freshwater pearls with a lack of quality.  A number of factors contribute to the more accessible prices of these gems.  First, the cost of running an inland freshwater pearl farm is much lower than an offshore saltwater operation.  Overhead is limited further by lower labor costs.

Second, the Triangle Shell mussel used to culture most freshwater pearls has two key advantages over its saltwater cousins.   First, it’s a hardy critter that can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures and conditions.  More importantly, most saltwater oysters can accept just one nucleus per growing cycle.  The thick mantle tissue of the Triangle Shell allows it to accommodate as many as 16 grafts per shell side for a possible yield of as many as 32 pearls per cycle.

Freshwater Fireball Pearls - $1,175

From glorious hollow core soufflés to magnificent coins, from solid nacre keshis to round and baroque shapes in a dizzying array of colors, cultured freshwater pearls are among the most beautiful pearls in the world.  At Seabourn Pearls we seek out the unusual and spectacular – way cool jewels that are not your grandmother’s pearls.  And, at least until market tastes catch on to the wondrous appeal of these spectacular gems, cultured freshwater pearls are a great value.

Shop our online gallery for a nice selection of freshwater and other pearls available for immediate FREE overnight shipping.  Or Contact Seabourn Pearls today to set up a private viewing or to request information or service of any kind.  Seriously, we’re eager to be helpful so don’t hesitate to ask us for anything.