What Are Shell Pearls?

For centuries, the lowly oyster held the patent on pearls. Even cultured pearls, required time and the commitment of the oyster. No more. Take Shell Pearls. While the oyster still provides the shell nuclei, the mollusk can now outsource the actual pearl production. These pearls are produced in less time and at a fraction of the cost of precious natural pearls. Shell pearls help by reducing the toll on the worlds dwindling pearl oyster beds. Many of these have already been harvested to extinction.

Shell pearls begin with a shaped piece of shell. They are then drilled, coated, baked and polished to a soft luster. While these cannot be called natural pearls, they boast some significant advantages. Shell pearls are as affordable as they are beautiful. They are more consistent in size, shape and luminousness and are more durable. They are less prone to damage from body oils, perfumes or chemicals and will maintain their rich luster.

I've just created a few pieces using these shell pearls. I have to say that the only way I can tell them from natural pearls is their symmetry and price. I think you will agree.