Judi McCormick / all nacre pearls

Kuwait Pearl Divers

Kuwait Pearl Divers

Pearl-diving trips were held annually under the patronage of the Kuwaiti Emir in order to keep alive traditions that accompanied the once important national trade of pearl diving, prior to the discovery of oil.
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The definitive book on Pearls, by Elisabeth Strack

The definitive book on Pearls, by Elisabeth Strack

At over 700 pages long, I go to Strack's book whenever I have a question about pearls.

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Henry Philip Hope's Gem Collection

Henry Philip Hope's Gem Collection

The Hope Pearl AND the Hope Diamond. Quite a major gem collection.
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Freshwater vs. Saltwater Pearls

Freshwater vs. Saltwater Pearls

Let me give you a very concise match-up and you can decide.
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The Black Beauty Pearl

The Black Beauty Pearl

The Black Beauty Pearl is considered to be one of the most important pearls in history. Why?

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Akoya Pearls vs. South Sea Pearls. Which is Right For You?

Akoya Pearls vs. South Sea Pearls. Which is Right For You?

Pearls are easily the most sought after gem in the fashion world these days. There is much confusion for buyers over the differences between Akoya and South Sea Pearls. It is best to understand what the advantages and properties are of each of these pearl varieties.
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Why Are Keshi Pearls Such A Rage?

Why Are Keshi Pearls Such A Rage?

You see them everywhere? They were a hot item in Tucson. What's all the rage about?
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The Big Pink Pearl

The Big Pink Pearl

The Big Pink Pearl was discovered in 1990 and weighs a stunning 470 carats, which is equal to 94 grams. The BPP is an abalone pearl found by the diver Wesley Rankin. In 1991, it was valued at...
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Why Are Keshi Pearls, Pearls Gone Wild?

Why Are Keshi Pearls, Pearls Gone Wild?

Keshi pearls are created accidentally by the mollusk. It is either a second growth byproduct after a nucleated pearl has matured or grown after a nucleus is rejected by the mollusk. They are total nacre.
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Historical Pearls-Arco Valley Pearl

Historical Pearls-Arco Valley Pearl

The Arco Valley Pearl dates back to the 11th century and is said to have been owned by several emperors.
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Tokki Pearls

Tokki Pearls

Tokki is a Japanese term to describe a protrusion or bump. Occasionally, oysters will produce a pearl with curious shapes. These are the result of an accident during growth. Oysters definitely have a mind of their own.
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What are Keshi Pearls?

What are Keshi Pearls?

Keshi Pearls are a little known form of, what I like to describe as, "pearls gone wild". Keshi Pearls are smaller and grown as a second growth of a cultured pearl or if the first nucleation is rejected.
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