Different Types Of Water Pearls

Introduction

Water pearls, also known as water beads or gel beads, have become increasingly popular for their versatility and beauty in various applications. These tiny spheres, when hydrated, add a touch of elegance to floral arrangements, centerpieces, sensory play, and more. In this blog, we embark on an exploration of the captivating world of water pearls, uncovering the different types and variations that offer a diverse range of colors, sizes, and textures.

1. Freshwater pearls: The undisputed leader in freshwater pearl cultivation today is China, however, they were originally cultivated in Japan. The unique ability of the mollusk Hyriopsis cumingi to grow dozens of pearls at a time makes freshwater pearls more affordable than saltwater pearls. As a result freshwater pearls are most commonly used in jewellery pieces, ranging in size from 2 to 9 mm in diameter. Rarely, they may reach 13 mm, but it takes 7-8 years to grow a pearl so big, which inevitably affects its value.
   
   
2. The Edison pearl: The result of many years of work by the brother and sister duo Zhang of China. This freshwater pearl, gets its name after the famous American scientist-inventor Thomas Edison, who once said: “There are two things you can’t get in my laboratory – diamonds and pearls.”. Since 2014, Edison pearls have been grown on an industrial scale at pearl farms in China. The process of cultivating Edison pearls is kept strictly secret. However, one thing is known. A new type of freshwater pearl obtained by cross-breeding is used for the pearls cultivation. 
   
   
3. Biwa Pearls: As the supply of wild, natural pearls on the jewellery market dwindled, cultured pearls from the Japanese lake of Biwa were in great demand. The mussels Hyriopsis schlegeli were used to grow them and the growth period of a pearl was up to 6 years. In its characteristics, the Biwa pearl is similar to freshwater pearls currently grown in China. Unfortunately, nowadays the pearls grown in Biwa Lake are becoming increasingly rare.
   
   
4. Mabe pearls: Mabe pearls are commonly grown using the saltwater mollusc’s called Pinctada maxima, Pinctada margaritifera or Pteria penguin. However, these pearls can also be freshwater pearls. The main difference between Mabe pearls and other cultured species is that the nucleus is hemispherical and is implanted not in the molluscan tissue but on the inside of the shell. This explains the hemispherical shape of the Mabe. Such a pearl usually grows from one to three years.
   Mabe’s sea pearls or ‘blister pearls’ are in high demand, as they are characterized by their  rich palette of colors, deep luster.
   
   
5. Akoya pearls: For those who prioritize environmental consciousness, biodegradable seed water pearls offer a sustainable choice. These pearls are made from biodegradable materials and can be planted along with seeds, allowing for both decorative purposes and the potential growth of plants. Embrace the beauty of nature while reducing environmental impact with these eco-friendly water pearls.
   
   
6. Tahiti Pearls: The most highly prized pearl is the Tahitian pearl, which is born from the oyster Pinctada margaritifera. Cultivated on the pearl farms of French Polynesia, they are naturally black in colour, though the variety of shades will satisfy the most demanding pearl connoisseurs.There is an endless variety of shades, ranging from grey to purple and even olive to deep blue. To grow a pearl larger than 10-11mm is a painstaking job that is not always successful in the end.
   

Conclusion

The world of water pearls offers a vast array of options, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. Whether you prefer the elegance of transparent pearls, the soft hues of pastels, the vibrant energy of neons, the sparkling glamour of metallic glitter pearls, the eco-consciousness of biodegradable seeds, or the statement-making jumbo pearls, there is a water pearl variety to suit every taste and occasion. Embrace the versatility and beauty of water pearls, and let your creativity soar as you explore the myriad possibilities they offer in creating stunning arrangements and sensory experiences.