The Mabé Pearl
Mabés are also produced by oyster grafting. It is a different technique than grafting to obtain pearls. In this case, we implant a nucleus which is often a half-sphere, inside the oyster shell and not in the gonad. And the oyster will cover it with mother-of-pearl just like the rest of the inside of the shell. We often implant several cores in a shell.
The CIBJO recognizes four categories of pearls: natural pearls (very rare), cultured pearls, composite pearls, imitation pearls. In addition, there are two categories of freshwater or seawater.
The value of pearls is determined by their shape (symmetry), their shine, their size, their color and their weight.
Pearls are divided into eight basic shapes: round, semi-round, button, drop, oval, pear, baroque, banded.
The brilliance (or luster of the pearl) is the most important criterion for judging the quality of a pearl, especially for jewelers; but the larger the pearl, the more expensive it is. Large, perfectly round pearls are very rare, and highly sought after for necklaces with several rows.
The thickness of the mother-of-pearl is a criterion determining the quality of a pearl. Mother-of-pearl can be considered as the essence of the pearl, because it will give it its luster, hue and durability. A thick mother-of-pearl allows the pearl to maintain its hue and appearance durably, unlike the fine mother-of-pearl which, even if it can be very beautiful, will have more trouble lasting over time.
A little history...
Pearls have been used to make jewelry since Antiquity; they were called Aphrodite's tears. The Roman families who could afford it, bought their daughters one or two pearls each year, so that they had a full necklace when they reached their majority.
Provenance
The pearl culture of Mabé is localized in the countries bordering the tropical seas of Southeast Asia. We find this culture of Mabé on territories like French Polynesia in particular in Tahiti.
Production is said to have started over a millennium in Asia.
However, it was not until the end of the 20th century that it really expanded thanks to a technique imported from Australia.
Mabé pearls are made using a different technique than whole pearls.
The Mabé Pearl in Astrology
The pearl symbolizes children born in June.
The cultured pearl is linked to the sign of Cancer.
It is traditionally offered for the 30th wedding anniversary.
The Mabé Pearl in lithotherapy
The pearl, called “Margarita” in Greek, was the queen of gems in Antiquity. It is the symbol of love, happiness and luck. Bright and sensual, it perfectly embodies softness and femininity. The pearl is soft, tender and feminine. Like mother-of-pearl, it would provide soothing and well-being; it would have positive effects on the problems of decalcification.
Take care for your Mabé Pearl
The pearls should be cleaned with a damp cloth.
Our selection of Mabé Pearl jewelry
- Mabé Pearl rings
- Mabé Pearl necklaces
- Mabé Pearl bracelets
- Mabé Pearl earrings
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