Pearls have been in existence for millions of years, long before the dinosaurs were walking the planet. About 6000 years ago the Egyptians were using mother of pearl in their jewellery, however it wasn't until 500 B.C. that they discovered the beauty of the pearl. China on the other hand, recorded the use of pearls as far back as 2300 B.C. where it was exclusively used by royalty.

Pearls are probably the only gemstone which does not require cutting and each one is totally unique. Although it is classified as a gemstone it is of course biologically produced by a mussel. These mussels can be found in fresh and saltwater.

Akoya pearls are found in saltwaters and is the most popular pearl for jewellery. Japaneses pearl farms specialize in Akoya pearls and in the 1920's they began farming them because the light coloured pearls complimented their completion. Generally these pearls are combined with 18K gold fitting because of the high quality and price attached to akoya pearls. The Japanese now face serious competition from the Chinese who started production in the 1990s.

To cultivate a saltwater pearl, a mother of pearl nucleus is implanted into the mussel along with an irritant. With akoya pearls, a maximum of 4 nucleuses can be placed at one time. When the akoya pearl in untreated it is cream or yellow coloured. Different shapes can occur including, drop, oval and round.

When you purchase an item of pearl jewellery you need to be aware that unlike other gemstones, these will not last forever. A saltwater pearl will last for 150 years and then go dull. Luckily it shouldn't die within your lifetime, just as long as you look after it. When you put perfume on make sure you do this before wearing your pearls. Also, every now and again, wash them with warm soapy water and dry with a soft tissue. When storing you pearl jewellery, use a soft tissue to wrap it, or even better put it in it's own box.

As a pearl jewllery wearer you are in good company as fashion icons such as Jackie Kennedy, Sophia Loren, Jennifer Lopez and Paris Hilton have all worn pearl jewellery. Pearls are the height of sophistication and there are few jewellery pieces which surpass its elegance.

Make sure you buy your pearl jewellery from a reputable jeweller. Ultra Diamonds not only sell diamonds but a large selection pearls including akoya.

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