Buy Loose South Sea Pearls

The four different types of pearls are:

• Freshwater Pearls: Freshwater pearls are cultivated in freshwater environments, such as lakes and rivers. They are known for their affordability and versatility. These pearls often have irregular shapes and come in various sizes, ranging from small seed pearls to larger baroque pearls. Freshwater pearls display a wide array of colours, including white, pink, lavender, and peach. 
• Akoya Pearls: Akoya pearls are renowned for their classic elegance and are primarily cultivated in Japan and China. They are typically round and have a smooth surface, making them highly desirable for jewellery. Akoya pearls have a creamy white or ivory colour and possess a high lustre, giving them a brilliant and reflective shine. Their size generally ranges from 6 to 8 millimetres, although larger specimens can be found.
• South Sea Pearls: There are three types of South Sea Pearls: Black Tahitian, Australian White and Gold South Sea Pearls from the Philippines. These pearls are celebrated for their exceptional size and luxurious appeal. South Sea pearls are among the largest pearls available, with sizes ranging from 9 to 20 millimetres. They exhibit a radiant, satin-like lustre and are renowned for their natural colours, including creamy white, silver, and golden hues. The larger size and exceptional quality of South Sea pearls contribute to their reputation as some of the most coveted pearls in the world.

Pearls are formed inside certain species of mollusks, such as oysters and mussels, as a defence mechanism against irritants. When a foreign object, such as a grain of sand or parasite, enters the mollusk, it secretes layers of nacre (a combination of calcium carbonate and protein) around the irritant, gradually forming a pearl.

Absolutely – cultured pearls are real pearls. They are formed through a process called pearl cultivation, where humans intentionally introduce an irritant into a mollusk to stimulate the pearl-forming process. When you buy loose pearls that are cultured, you are receiving pearls with the same organic composition as natural pearls, with the only difference being the introduction of the irritant by human intervention.

Loose pearls are graded based on several factors, including their size, shape, lustre, surface quality, colour, and matching. The grading criteria may vary slightly depending on the type of pearl. The grading system allows for a standardised assessment of a pearl’s quality and helps determine its value in the market.

Our loose South Sea pearls are sourced from reputable pearl farms in Australia, French Polynesia and the Philippines.

It is essential to handle and care for your jewellery properly to ensure their longevity. Avoid exposing your pearl jewellery to harsh chemicals, perfumes, or lotions, as they can damage the delicate surface. Clean your pearl rings gently with a soft cloth after each wearing to remove any oils or residue. Store them separately from other jewellery to prevent scratching, and avoid exposing it to excessive heat or prolonged sunlight.

Read our guide for caring for pearls to find out more about how to care for your pearl rings.

Designing jewellery pieces featuring loose pearls opens up a world of creative possibilities. Here are some design tips to consider:

• Elegant Contrasts with Pink Diamonds: For a stunning contrast in colours and textures, consider combining lustrous loose pearls with the brilliance of loose pink diamonds. This pairing exudes sophistication and adds a touch of romantic allure to your jewellery. A classic design option is to create a pendant or earrings with a single pearl suspended beneath a cluster of pink diamonds, creating a captivating focal point.
• Opulent Opal Combinations: Loose pearls and loose opals complement each other beautifully due to their iridescent qualities. The play of colours in opals pairs wonderfully with the timeless beauty of pearls. Designers often incorporate loose opals as accent stones in pearl rings or as vibrant halos around a central pearl in necklaces and earrings, creating a mesmerising and unique look.
• Embrace Baroque Beauty: Don’t forget the allure of loose baroque pearls. These naturally irregular-shaped pearls have a distinctive charm, making them perfect for artistic and avant-garde designs. Consider using them as the centrepiece in statement necklaces or as focal points in asymmetrical earrings. The uniqueness of loose baroque pearls adds character and personality to your jewellery creations.
• Consult with Our Experts: At Volle Jewellery, our experienced jewellery designers are here to assist you in bringing your vision to life. Whether you’re looking for a classic, contemporary, or entirely bespoke design, we can provide expert guidance and recommendations to ensure your loose pearls’ shine in their full glory.