People have been drawn to pearls for thousands of years. Pearls are truly a miracle of nature, surrounded in myth and mystery. Real pearls are easily distinguished from there faux counterparts. The authenticity of a pearl is revealed in its color, luster, shape, weight and size. Pearls do come in many shapes but round pearls are the most sought after, as they are the most difficult to cultivate. Our pearls come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors.

Pearls have an inherent romance, beauty and glamour like no other gem or precious stone. The manifestation of a pearl is an oddity in that the pearl arises as the result of a natural coating process that is a reaction to a foreign irritant within the oyster. It's astounding that something so beautiful and unique arises due to a reaction to a foreign invasion. This process (coating reaction) is where cultured and natural pearls differentiate. In cultured pearls the foreign irritant that triggers the oysters coating reaction is purposely implanted in the oyster by humans. It must be noted that it requires a careful and thorough examination by an expert in order to tell the difference between a natural pearl and a cultured pearl. The results are virtually identical!

Tanaka's Jewelry suggests that you not only care for your pearls but that you love your pearls. We feel that pearls are alive and their beauty grows and flourishes when in the hands of those who love them. Pearls are very sensitive. One should never expose pearls to extreme temperatures or any type of chemical that could damage the surface of the pearl. It's okay to use lukewarm water and a mild non-detergent soap to clean your pearls but you should never soak them entirely in water. Keep your pearls away from other jewelry and sharp objects, as they can be damaged. Do not put pearls in an airtight container. Pearls need to breathe and should be stored in their own separate box or soft pouch.

Yes, pearls are beautiful, mysterious, glamorous and individually distinctive. That being said, pearls could become another endangered ocean miracle. Over harvesting, environmental pollutants, and sub-par farming methods are a threat to the future of natural pearls.  As the oyster population decreases so will the availability of pearls that are intrinsically beautiful. This can only mean one thing. The price of pearls will increase and those you've already purchased will increase in value.

Tanaka's Jewelry - a passion for beauty.