PEARL EDUCATION · PRETTY U&ME
Know Your Pearls
A note from Chao
"Growing up in Shaoxing — where pearls have been cherished for centuries — I learned early that not all pearls are created equal. Understanding what you're wearing changes everything. I hope this guide helps you fall in love with pearls the way I did."
— Chao, founder of Pretty U&Me
The six pearl types
Freshwater
China · Lakes & rivers
Carried by Pretty U&Me
Size range4 – 10mm
CultivationFreshwater
Value tier$$
ShapesRound to baroque
ColorsWhite, cream, rose, lavender, peach
Edison
China · Nucleated freshwater
Carried by Pretty U&Me
Size range8 – 14mm
CultivationFreshwater
Value tier$$$
ShapesNear-round, oval
ColorsWhite, rose, lavender, peacock, copper
Akoya
Japan · Saltwater
Size range3 – 10mm
CultivationSaltwater
Value tier$$$$
ShapesRound (very consistent)
ColorsSignature pink or silver overtones
Tahitian
Polynesia · Saltwater
Size range8 – 15mm
CultivationSaltwater
Value tier$$$$$
ShapesRound, drop, baroque
ColorsBlack, grey, green, blue, cherry, peacock
Golden South Sea
South East Asia · Saltwater
Size range8 – 18mm
CultivationSaltwater
Value tier$$$$$$
ShapesRound, drop
ColorsChampagne, warm gold, deep honey gold
Australian White
Australia · Saltwater
Size range8 – 18mm
CultivationSaltwater
Value tier$$$$$$
ShapesRound, drop
ColorsWhite, silver, cream with blue/silver overtone
Pretty U&Me specialises in freshwater pearlsAlmost all pearls on the market are cultivated pearls
Caring for your pearls
Last on, first off
Put pearls on after perfume, hairspray, and lotion. Remove before showering, swimming, or exercising. Chemicals and sweat dull nacre over time.
Wipe after wearing
Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth after each wear. This removes oils and acids from skin that can slowly erode the nacre layer.
Store in the pouch
Pearls scratch easily — store them in the soft pouch provided, away from other jewelry. Avoid airtight containers; pearls need a little humidity to stay lustrous.
Keep from heat & sun
Prolonged heat and direct sunlight fade pearl colour. Store away from windowsills and never leave in a hot car. This especially applies to resin flower pieces.
No ultrasonic cleaners
Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners on pearls. The vibration and heat can damage the nacre and weaken string settings. A damp soft cloth is all you need.
Wear them often
Pearls actually benefit from being worn. The natural oils from your skin can enhance their lustre over time. Don't save them just for special occasions — that's the whole point.
Ready to find your pearl?
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