Cultured pearls are created by adding a piece of mussel or shell inside of an oyster of mussel. This then creates a pearl as layers of the inside of the shell grow over the added substance. Pearls are generally white, brown, silver, cream, black or pink depending on the type of shellfish and water. Pearl has a hardness of 3. The price of pearls vary widely as a result of luster, size, how they were grown, color and type.
Natural pearls are the most expensive, followed by cultured pearls.
Fresh water pearls tend to be relatively inexpensive. Some say rubbing a pearl against their teeth can determine whether a pearl is real or fake since fake ones will feel too smooth. Pearls are less durable than most gems. They are sensitive to acids, dryness, and humidity. When taking off your pearls, wipe them with a dry, lint-free cloth.