Pearls can be divided into saltwater and freshwater pearls according to their growth and breeding environment. There are significant differences between saltwater and freshwater pearls because of the differences in growth environment, growth time, and culture methods.
1）Output
In terms of output, the production of seawater pearls is relatively tiny. Generally speaking, one clam can only cultivate 1 to 2 pearls, and because of the complex growth environment, clams are prone to death: freshwater pearls have a large output, and one clam can generally cultivate 30 to 40 pearls. From this point of view, the quality of freshwater pearls is not high. According to statistics, only one perfect freshwater pearl can be found among 100 freshwater pearls. Overall, the yield of relatively perfect freshwater pearls is about the same as the number of high-quality saltwater pearls. However, the production of seawater pearls is relatively low, which indirectly leads to an increase in the value of seawater pearls.
2) Shade
Secondly, from the shape point of view, seawater pearls are cultured with nucleation, and most of them are perfectly round; freshwater pearls have different shapes. There are relatively few round freshwater pearls, including nearly round, oval, oblate, special-shaped, etc.
3) Glossiness
Third, from the perspective of luster, saltwater pearls have a higher nacre density,and their luster is sharper than freshwater pearls, which have a softer luster.
4) Color
Fourth, from the color point of view, saltwater pearls are translucent, and the colors are mainly white, gold, black, and silver gray. Saltwater pearls from China and Japan are generally white; South Sea saltwater pearls are mainly white, gold, and black; freshwater pearls are mainly white, pink, and purple.
5) Size
Fifth, in terms of size, the diameter of saltwater pearls is generally larger than that of freshwater pearls. The diameter of saltwater pearls is generally 6 to 7.5 mm, while the diameter of freshwater pearls is much smaller. Relevant data shows that the diameter of Chinese seawater pearls is generally less than 8 mm. Due to Japan's better mussel farming technology, seawater pearls are larger than Chinese seawater pearls, with a diameter of 8~9 mm, while South Sea seawater pearls are larger. Larger, the diameter is generally more than 9 mm, and pearls with a more than 14 mm diameter are even more precious.
6) Density
Sixth, from the perspective of structural density, the structural density of seawater pearls is lower than that of freshwater pearls.
7) Touch Feel
Seventh, from the feel point of view, seawater pearls have a delicate and moist feel, while freshwater pearls have a softer feel, relatively rough.
8）Core
Eighth, from the core point of view, seawater pearls are cultured with nucleation, and the growth shape is sometimes easy to control. However, freshwater pearls generally adopt a non-nucleation culture method, and the shape of the pearl is challenging to control during the formation process.
9） Surface
Ninth, from the surface point of view, most will have certain flaws no matter what kind of pearl. Due to the complex culture environment of seawater pearls, there are relatively more skin defects. In contrast, the culture environment of freshwater pearls is relatively simple, and the skin looks smoother and rounder.
Through above 9 ways we can easily distinguish between seawater and freshwater pearls. Of course, pearls are a consumable product. Whether saltwater or freshwater pearls, as long as they match your skin and temperament, they will enhance your character and taste.
