Appreciating Pearls

Are cultured pearls "organic real pearls"? The image below illustrates how a natural pearl is created.  Pearls may be found in saltwater or freshwater. Both saltwater and freshwater pearls may either be natural or cultured pearls....

Observe the following to assess pearl quality: Lustre and orient; Nacre thickness and quality; and Surface texture. 1. Lustre and Orient  A pearl is adored for its soft iridescent glow that radiates from within. Good...