|
Pearls n Swirls
Classic treasures of the sea
|
Pearls have been popular for their precious nature and regal look. They are also in demand due to their longevity and uniqueness. It is common knowledge and a truth that no two pearls are the same. In Latin, the word "pearl" means "unique" and they have been used for adornment for more than 6000 years. In astrology, it is associated with the moon and in symbology with femininity, magic, modesty and purity.
Says jewellery designer Nikeeta Shah, "Pearls have always been a sign of royalty. Kings and queens valued pearls more than precious stones." Based on occurrence they are classified into two types: natural and cultured pearls. Biologically, pearls come from mollusks such as oysters, abalone, scallops etc. The natural variety is a rarity and, hence, cultured pearls, which are cultivated pearls, are what we see in the market all over. There are lots of natural pearls like the oysters variety, and conch pearls which are not created in an oyster. The rice pearl are found on the sea-bed. And there are melo melo pearls which comes from a Melo Melo marine snail, abalone pearls and scallop pearls.
The pearls used in jewellery are of the cultured variety that are more often cultivated in saltwater. This process has the advantage of being far more lustrous than their original sisters. They also look extremely beautiful in their white, pink, cream and black colours. The most popular pearls are Akoya pearls (Japan), South Sea pearls (Australia), Tahitian black pearls (Tahiti-Polynesia). Among cultured pearls there are others such as Keshi and Mabe Pearls which are used to decorate rings and enhance earrings.
Talking about trends, the simple string of pearls will never go out of style. It has always remained a symbol of elegance and it most probably will. What keeps changing are reinvented looks with these versatile jewels. Says Nikeeta, "Pearls have been used in jewellery for ages but what we are seeing now is a trend in favour of Indo-western designs which marry ultra-chic with the soft Indian look. For eg, chandelier earrings with drop down pearls (in pic) they have a Western as well as a royal feel to them"
Shape-wise too pearls have evolved. "The tear drop pearls which were everywhere not a very long time ago have become passé now. They are too Indian and do not fit into the scheme of Indo-Western designs. Round shapes are, these days being considered far more elite and dressy," observes Nikeeta.
It is also a time for whimsical-shaped pearls to make more appearances in experimental designs. It could be in the shape of pearls on invisible strings that are strung, here and there, to give that modern chic look or on a semi-precious, pearl-beaded anklets, and belts. "Pearls, especially of the whimsical-shaped variety, are being used in unconventional ways. On belts and anklets coupled with semi-precious stones they are quite cool!" Also they give the added advantage to mould the design in untraditional fashion highlighting their random shapes. Whimsical-shaped pearls are usually fresh-water pearls found on the bed of the water-body.
The traditional mark-of-a-woman pearl might not be the youngster's favourite piece of jewellery but pearl jewellery is being made to meet the approval of the younger generation. Says Nikeeta, "Conventionally pearls are meant for the womanly look, but we do try and make the look younger by adding filigree or making unconventional designs." Pearls are so versatile that if judiciously chosen not only do they blend in with the look but also add a statement of their own, which is different then the traditional. For example, little pearls (rice or seed pearls as they are called) could be set in a filigreed piece instead of stones and the look, instantly, becomes soft and yet remains young. Basra pearls are generally used for this purpose and they are very expensive.
Tips on how to care for your pearls:
- Keep them wrapped in a tissue and in a cotton box. This is so that you ensure they will never get scratched. Once scratched a pearl is useless as nothing can repair it..
- Make sure the box you put them in is not made of acidic paper, treated wood, and leather all of which exude chemical vapors harmful to pearls even if you wrap the strand in silk before boxing.
- Keep them away from spirits and alcohol as that affects the coating.
- While dressing up apply your perfume first and wear your jewellery last so as to ensure they never come in contact with chemicals.
- Give your pearl jewellery for regular cleaning to a trusted jeweler. Pearl jewellery is cleaned after carefully removing each and every pearl. One doesn't want a scratch or damage during the removing or resetting.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ask our Experts :
Expert Advice, Personality, Immigration (US), Tarot, Hot Couture, Body Care, Matrimonial Laws, Sexual Health, Life, etc, Man vs Woman, Fitness. |
|
 |
|
Copyright © 2012 Shaaditimes.com - A relationship and wedding portal by Shaadi.com. - All Rights Reserved. Terms and Conditions
|
