photo: Mikimoto Pearls
South Sea and Tahitian pearls are great alternatives to classic pearls. Both types of pearls are exotic and are perfect for tropical destination weddings by the beach. While the most common Tahitian color is black (or a yummy chocolate hue), the pearls also come in silver-white, green and peacock colors, purplish and bluish overtones. Tahitian pearls get their bold color from the oyster’s black lips and come the French Polynesian Islands. I recently saw a strand of pistachio green matched pearls which takes years to collect a matching set therefore the price tag goes along with the rarity.
photo: Mastoloni
photo: Adam Neeley Designs
photo: Mastoloni
photo: Aetleier Marisa
Tahitian pearls are so coveted that in the early part of the 20th century, the pearl was close to extinction; like today, the pearl was such a desired commodity that the oysters were hunted for their shells alone.
photo: Mastoloni
www.neelastro.com
Cultured South Sea pearls are found throughout the Indian and Pacific Oceans, in places like Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia and Myanmar. A truly grand pearl, the South Sea pearl is among the largest pearls found in the world; the average size of a South Sea pearl is 13 mm. The size of the mollusk (Pinctada maxima), the length of time the pearl grows in the oyster and the oyster’s environment all contribute to the pearl’s exceptional size. The pearl’s size is only to be rivaled in color, ranging from ivory and yellow to a silver-pink,. Australia’s silver-lipped oyster produces creamy white pearls with a silvery overtone. The golden-lipped variety of the Philippines creates one of the rarest and most valued cultured pearls. The Golden South Sea.
If you want to be a more infinitely modern bride, why not indulge! Both types of pearls can add instant edge to a bridal look of luxury while retaining the sophistication of a pearl.
Giveaway Winner: Tree and Kimball Necklace!
With so many lovely necklaces to choose from, the winner of this week’s contest has a tough decision to make! The Tree and Kimball giveaway is now closed and we’ve selected a winner!
Photo Credit: Tree and Kimball
The winner of the Tree & Kimball giveaway contest is Virginia Jimenez . Congratulations! Her winning comment that was submitted on 02/07/12 and selected in a random drawing is: “such beautiful necklaces!! I love lace <3” Lisa from Tree and Kimball will be in touch with you shortly to discuss your necklace choice and to get your shipping info.
Another exciting giveaway contest is coming up later today. Check back in to enter for more chances to win!