Chi Huynh, of Galatea: Jewelry By Artist, has developed an incredibly unique new cultured pearl. While carving a pearl Chi accidentally carved too deep and exposed the white nuclei of a black Tahitian pearl. This lead to an idea, why no use other colored gems as nuclei?

Chi looked for a place to grow his new idea and found himself off the coast of Vietnam starting a test bed. Three years later AAA-quality Black Vietnamese Pearls with colored gemstone nuclei were ready for carving. Leading to what may be the most unique product in a long time, multi colored carved pearls.

This pearl features a turquoise center, but others have been created using citrine and amethyst.

Pearl strands come in a multitude of lengths and each particular length has a particular name. Here’s a list of the commonly used names for the different lengths for strands of pearls.

Collar
Pearl collars are generally 12-13 inches in length. They fit snugly mid neck and are often comprised of multiple strands.

Choker
Choker length pearls are usually 14-16 inches in length. As the name implies, they lay close to the neck and are a classic look appropriate with just about any attire.

Princess
Princess length pearl strands are generally 16-20 inches in length. They look great with high or low cut tops and dresses and are the perfect length if you wish to adorn them with a pearl enhancer.

Matinee
Matinee length strands of pearls are 20-26 inches long. You can create an elegant look by wearing a matinee length strand in combination with a pearl choker.

Opera
Opera length pearls are those strands that are 28-36 inches in length. They can be doubled or twisted to create the look of multiple strands or worn full length with a low cut evening gown to create an absolutely stunning look.

Rope
Rope length pearl strands are 40-45 inches long. Like the opera length, they can be doubled or twisted to create the look of 2 or even 3 strands of pearls. They are often strung with multiple hidden clasps to create bracelets or multiple lengths. You can create an exquisite look by wearing them from the shoulders and allowing them to extend below the waist.

You should always clean your pearls after you wear them to remove any make-up etc. that might have gotten on them. Gently wipe them with a soft clean lint free cloth as soon as you take them off. You can use a little water and a very mild no abraisive soap if they’re dirty. Be sure and allow them to air dry before you put them away. NEVER clean your pearls with harsh chemicals such as ammonia that can be found in jewelry cleaners.

Not really, but you can tell a few things about a pearl using just your senses. First, do not bite the pearl, rub the pearl against your front tooth. If it feels gritty, not dirty but more textured, chances are that it is a cultured or genuine pearl. If it feels smooth, it is likely glass or plastic.

Telling the difference between cultured and genuine pearls is more tricky and it is recommended that you take your pearls to a jeweler to have them identified.