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Pearl Strands

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One pearl alone is a unique and wonderful gem. To see many pearls stranded together is a great beauty to behold.

The power of a pearl is in the remarkable event of light – its ability to refract and reflect light from within. It's called iridescence and whether it comes from the shell (Mother of Pearl) or the pearl itself, the lustrous shine of pearly nacre invokes a deep sense of awe to the human eye.

An Australian South Sea pearl strand may be a collection of the finest pearls that a pearl farm can produce in any given harvest. These strands can take many years to assemble and are destined to become some of the world's rarest jewellery items. Pearls of Australia proudly showcase some of these rare Australian South Sea and Australian Akoya strands, some so rare they remain part of the Brown family's 75-year private collection.

Not all strands feature world-class rarity such as this. Every harvest we match and assemble pearls of unusual shapes and colours, graded sizes and some subtle surface imperfections – sometimes too many imperfections to be made into a single piece of jewellery. In this case, the effect of exquisite pearly iridescence from many pearls together outshines smaller visible imperfections, making the strand strikingly beautiful while falling into more affordable price ranges.

Whether worn with a white t-shirt and jeans, or to the Met Gala, a strand of lustrous Cygnet Bay or Broken Bay pearls is an understated showstopper.

Most importantly, as with all Pearls of Australia jewellery, a pearl strand is an investment in future generations – a treasured heirloom that reflects an incredible story connecting people and place.

What types of pearls are commonly used in pearl strand necklaces?

Pearl strand necklaces can be made from a variety of pearl types, including Akoya, freshwater, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls. Akoya pearls are often used in traditional pearl strand necklaces and are usually smaller and more uniform in size and color. Freshwater pearls are typically larger and can come in a wider range of colors and shapes. South Sea pearls and Tahitian pearls are larger still and can range in color from white to black.

How long should a pearl strand necklace be?

The length of a pearl strand necklace can vary depending on personal preference and the occasion. A classic length for a pearl strand necklace is 18 inches, which falls just below the collarbone. However, pearl strand necklaces can range from choker length (around 16 inches) to opera length (around 32 inches). When choosing the length of your pearl strand necklace, consider your body type and the neckline of the clothing you plan to wear it with.

Are there any special care instructions for pearl strand necklaces?

Pearls are delicate and require special care to keep them looking their best. To care for your pearl strand necklace, avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, including perfumes, hairsprays, and cleaning products. Wipe your pearls gently with a soft, damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or sweat. Store your pearl strand necklace separately from other jewellery to prevent scratching and keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid hanging your pearl strand necklace for long periods of time, as this can cause stress on the string and eventually lead to breakage.

Can I wear a pearl strand necklace with casual outfits, or is it better suited for formal occasions?

Pearl strand necklaces can be worn with a wide range of outfits, from casual to formal. A simple, classic strand of pearls can add an elegant touch to a casual outfit, such as a simple blouse or sweater. On the other hand, a more elaborate strand of pearls with larger pearls or an eye-catching clasp can make a statement piece for a formal occasion, such as a cocktail dress or gown. When choosing a pearl strand necklace to wear with a casual outfit, consider choosing a shorter strand with smaller pearls. For formal occasions, consider choosing a longer strand with larger pearls or a unique shape, such as baroque pearls.