The price-value anomaly is obvious to consumers as they hasten to buy Chinese freshwater bargains. Indeed, pearls from freshwater mussels lie at the center of the liveliest activity in pearling today.

Chinese pearls came mainly from freshwater rivers and ponds, whereas Japanese pearls were found near the coast in salt water. Nearly all the pearls in commerce originated from those few sources.

Pearls are made by marine oysters and freshwater mussels as a natural defence against an irritant such as a parasite entering their shell or damage to their fragile body. The oyster or mussel slowly ...

Before the development of plastic, buttons were made from mussel shells. Freshwater pearls are still cultured by inserting small pieces of native mussel shell into oysters. Mussels are fascinating ...

One of the largest freshwater pearls found in Scottish history will go to auction on August 21. It's expected to fetch between £40,000 and £60,000 (€46,946 to €70,426). It was discovered by ...

Kultura’s Jewelry Market is back until Feb. 28, showcasing handcrafted designs that celebrate Filipino artistry. Explore ...

Looking for the best Valentine’s gifts for the women in your life? Check out a wide selection of authentic South Sea and freshwater pearls, semi-precious stones, and handcrafted accessories at Kultura ...

The Pinctada maxima oyster can take up to five years to produce a single South Sea pearl, whereas more common freshwater oysters can take as little as three months and create dozens of pearls.