The Difference in Formation & Rarity
Let’s clear the confusion: cultured pearls are grown with human help (a bead or tissue is placed inside an oyster), while natural pearls form spontaneously. Natural pearls are so rare that finding one is like hitting jewelry lottery—most “natural” pearls you’ll encounter are actually cultured (and that’s not a bad thing).
Cost-Benefit for Professional Wardrobes
For career women, cultured pearls are the smart choice. They offer the same luster and beauty as natural pearls but at a fraction of the cost. This means you can build a versatile collection—think a necklace, earrings, and bracelet—without breaking the bank. Natural pearls, while luxurious, are often too pricey for everyday office wear (save them for black-tie events).
How to Spot Quality in Both Types
Whether cultured or natural, quality boils down to three things:
- Luster: The way light reflects off the pearl—look for a sharp, mirror-like shine.
- Surface Quality: Fewer blemishes mean higher quality (some texture is normal, but avoid major scratches).
- Shape: Round pearls are classic, but baroque (irregular) styles are trending for a modern twist. For cultured pearls, also check the nacre thickness (the outer layer)—thicker nacre means better durability.
