Topic 18 of 99: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Sun, Aug 8, 1999 (20:18) |
Marcia (MarciaH)
426 responses total.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 1 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Aug 8, 1999 (20:20) * 1 lines
This is where we will discuss precious materials from Animals (Ivory), Plants (Amber) and Sealife (Pearls, corals, shells)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 2 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Sun, Aug 8, 1999 (21:22) * 3 lines
Ohhhh, baby!! Poils!
you couldn't pay me to wear amber, way too sappy ;-D
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 3 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Aug 8, 1999 (21:28) * 2 lines
Hey, with a big enough whole critter in it, I'd do a Lady Godiva for Amber...
What color Poils? I brought back a $20,000 (or was it $45,000) necklace for Gi's bridal shower in Tahitian Black ones...!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 4 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Mon, Aug 9, 1999 (00:29) * 5 lines
Well, I'm not a big fan of the pinky or peachy colored ones, but I'd never turn down basic white or Tahitian Black. I remember the necklace for Gi's shower or were there two? One was gorgeous.
Am drooling right now over a gorgeous single Tahitian black pearl, sandwiched between two bezel-set diamonds on an 18K white gold omega chain. Cover of the Bailey Banks & Biddle summer catalogue. Only $1,800. A bargain compared with Gi's necklace, but only one pearl of unknown mm.
Love these non-eco topics. ;-D
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 5 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Aug 9, 1999 (00:37) * 1 lines
There was a long necklace of large pearls and one with a pendant, I believe. They were smashing, no?!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 6 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Aug 9, 1999 (00:38) * 1 lines
(And I much prefer shiny bright object than angst - any day!!!)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 7 of 426: Gi (patas) * Mon, Aug 9, 1999 (14:35) * 1 lines
Gi's jewels... Oh they were magnificent! Wish they were mine in real life too ;-)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 8 of 426: roark muse-dwr (roarksmuse) * Thu, Aug 12, 1999 (22:31) * 1 lines
I'm back again. I love the Tahitian black pearls. They are so expensive. One day though I plan to at least get the ear rings.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 9 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Aug 12, 1999 (22:36) * 1 lines
I thought I would settle for a nice cleveage dangler with substantial gold which I would match with the earrings. Or a clavicle hugger... But, at the rate I am going, I shall just admire the ones on other people. The way I figure it, why buy something I want to see and admire then put it on me where everyone except me can see it. My earrings are usually plain ones.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 10 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Fri, Aug 13, 1999 (16:06) * 1 lines
From the number of black pearls I've been seeing out there, am wondering how many are truly natural vs. dyed cultured pearls. I'm going to have to scan that single black pearl necklace in for you to see, Marcia. It says it is Mikimoto but I know that company's pearl beds are in Japan. Thought the black ones were only found around Tahiti, or do you think Mikimoto is seeding its oysters with something to create black pearls in greater quantities than found naturally?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 11 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Aug 13, 1999 (18:25) * 1 lines
Mikimoto has established pearl fisheries in the Tahiti - Tonga area. They do it the same way as in Japan, but use the oysters native to the black pearl area. It seems they are very successful. Be aware there are "bargain" black pearls out there which are dyed. Just be sure of your jeweller's integrity and his source for them.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 12 of 426: Gi (patas) * Sun, Aug 15, 1999 (08:43) * 4 lines
(Marcia)The way I figure it, why buy something I want
to see and admire then put it on me where everyone except me can see it.
That was very well put, Marcia, and I'll try to remember it when I can't afford some jewelry I like!;-D
*But*... my favourite jewels are rings... :-(
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 13 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Aug 15, 1999 (14:38) * 1 lines
Mine, too, Gi! I need about 10 more fingers to accommodate what I have...and toes, too?!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 14 of 426: Gi (patas) * Sun, Aug 22, 1999 (05:30) * 1 lines
Do American ladies wear several rings in one finger, like the Spanish and Portuguese do? ;-)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 15 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Sun, Aug 22, 1999 (10:51) * 1 lines
yes....especially stack rings....
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 16 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Sun, Aug 22, 1999 (11:08) * 1 lines
All depends on how long one's fingers are. The stack rings I have are all very narrow, but I still have difficulty wearing more than two because of how short my fingers are.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 17 of 426: Helen Tofas (helen) * Sun, Aug 22, 1999 (12:41) * 1 lines
finally, women are following the finest style of jewellry designs.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 18 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Aug 22, 1999 (13:20) * 1 lines
Hello, Helen, Welcome. I have long fingers, and on my "wedding ring" finger I have a plain gold band (wedding ring to keep unwanted mashers away) topped by a guard, then my Alexandrite, then another guard on top of that. I do have a friend who stacks all sorts of very valuable heirloom rings on her fingers and it looks trashy...even though she has a huge amount of money festooning her fingers. Things should sort-of go togehter, imo.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 19 of 426: Gi (patas) * Sun, Aug 22, 1999 (15:53) * 1 lines
What are guards?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 20 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Sun, Aug 22, 1999 (15:54) * 5 lines
i showed the alpha male the orbis rings and he thinks they're silly. there are petite styles and huge styles, necklaces, and earrings.
the max stack rings i wear are three on my right index finger. they were my grandmother's (diamond, ruby, and sapphire all set in silver). but if i wear them, i limit the other rings. maybe just my anniversary ring and another silver on my right hand.
i don't care for the look of rings on all fingers, but some folks just want to wear everything they own at once.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 21 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Sun, Aug 22, 1999 (15:55) * 1 lines
guards are rings designed to wrap around a ring. they're also known as wraps. some are designed with two bands where you can slip a solitaire in between. they're to enhance the solitaire. some have gems and some are plain.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 22 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Aug 22, 1999 (16:20) * 1 lines
In my case, guards are plain little thin bands which keep the Alexandrite solitaire in place on top of the wedding band and set it off a little. Wraps actually interlock with the solitaire and are lovely - much nicer than guards. Ring guards can also augment your original plain wedding band and make it look wider and more elegant if they are done is stones or cutwork.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 23 of 426: quimby (quimby) * Mon, Aug 23, 1999 (20:28) * 3 lines
A place to talk about jools!? Gi's were so nice. Having been brought up to be a Southern Belle, I used to never leave the house without at least one piece of jewelry, but with time (a great deal of it, it seems to me), I went on a sabbatical. I can't even stand to wear a watch; things seem to interrupt the energy pulsing underneath my fair skin. I'd like to wear a pendant watch if I could ever find one I liked. And yes I know they're _so_ over; that's precisely the time to wear things, in my book. But abo
t jools. I'm so boring. Diamonds, pearls, sapphires, the end. Nary an emerald has ever lain upon me. Once an exhusband bought me a jade necklace, but I returned it; way too expensive for the amount of time I'd wear it. I mean, you can't just go around wearing jade any old time, unless you're Chinese, or can you? Maybe it's just that I've become more minimalist. One really great piece. As long as it doesn't block the flow. I was given a lot of amber in Russia, since they're so fond of it, but since I'm not
I gave it to Russians stateside and made a lot of people happy.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 24 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Aug 23, 1999 (20:38) * 4 lines
Wow! Welcome dear...we have two Jool topics in here. The inorganic stuff is down the numbers a ways..and there is a nice discussion of CF in Vulcanism (you'll see why!) *lol* is there any way we can keep him from cropping up in our conversations?! And, if we could, would we really want to? Pendant watches on
long, swag chains pinned up at the left shoulder is "the" way to wear them - I have my Grandmother's in turquoise enamel and gold. It is exquisite, but arrived into my keeping without the swag. I shall never afford one strong enough to hold it up there, but it is still gorgeous!
You can wear Jade Anytime in Hawaii. Any kind, any style, anytime. Lots of it, too.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 25 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Sep 30, 1999 (20:30) * 3 lines
Time to wax lyrical about Amber. Love the stuff but have only three tiny pieces none of which have any bugs or interesting inclusions. I am working on the Geologist kid to get me one, but he keeps getting them for girl friends who then part from him. I am his eternal mother...oh well. Back to the Amber...
Tree resin...over time hardened into something like plastic but still containing the fragrance of the original tree sap. If you are a romantic like I am, you will appreciate these two wasps captured forever in amber in the act of mating.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 26 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Sep 30, 1999 (20:31) * 1 lines
Ooops! ...they are not wasps...they are scavenger flies, as it plainly states!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 27 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Fri, Oct 1, 1999 (21:38) * 3 lines
how did you know i wanted to talk about amber too? as i was waiting for the topic to open, i was putting together my amber statement.
anyway, i was thinking, wouldn't it be neat if i could find an 8mm amber bead to put in my orbis ring? wonder where i could find one....any ideas?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 28 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Oct 1, 1999 (21:57) * 8 lines
Funny you should ask...I happen to have a few URLs for you of amber dealers:
http://goldray.com/amberlady/
This is the gems and fossils webring
http://www.webring.org/cgi-bin/webring?ring=gems;list
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 29 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Oct 1, 1999 (22:01) * 4 lines
I did an google search for "amber" and came up with several dealers...
this one is the best, but it is sometimes "down" (poor English, but I think you know what I mean...)
http://www.kadets.d20.co.edu/~lundberg/amber.html
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 30 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Sat, Oct 2, 1999 (13:18) * 1 lines
thank you thank you thank you!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 31 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Oct 2, 1999 (14:08) * 1 lines
Let us know of your success. I know they have beads loose for stringing in some of those wholesale places...! It would be lovely in your Orbis ring!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 32 of 426: Gi (patas) * Sun, Oct 3, 1999 (03:31) * 3 lines
(Marcia)Let us know of your success.
Yes, please!
I don't own, or wear, much jewelry (less and less, actually), but enjoy reading about yours, and always enjoy looking at it in stores :-)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 33 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Sun, Oct 3, 1999 (10:47) * 3 lines
here's a scanned image of the only piece of amber i own. marcia, i sent this pic to one of your amber sources and also asked for pricing on an 8mm bead.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 34 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Oct 3, 1999 (14:12) * 1 lines
How pretty! Thank you for scanning it. Unfortunately, amber is very soft and as a pendant on a ring, it will get abraded rather quickly losing its luster. Be careful with how you wear it! I still think enclosed in your wires of the Orbis ring is the best way to wear it...all save and sound inside the protecting captive mounting.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 35 of 426: Gi (patas) * Tue, Oct 5, 1999 (05:47) * 2 lines
Lovely, Wolf!
Although I would never wear an insect, however well encased in amber, I guess i might wear a leaf or a flower if there are any around.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 36 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Oct 5, 1999 (20:28) * 1 lines
lotsa ferns...I think...
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 37 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Oct 30, 1999 (00:17) * 3 lines
Talk about having the world on a string...You can capture it for your Orbis ring
Gi's gift:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 38 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Oct 30, 1999 (00:18) * 1 lines
I love that little world - it's gonna show up a lot. Thank you Gi Dear !
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 39 of 426: Gi (patas) * Sat, Oct 30, 1999 (04:40) * 1 lines
You are very welcome!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 40 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Oct 30, 1999 (14:26) * 1 lines
Oh My Dear!!!! How darling...Thanks for such cute and different little gems for Geo. *grinning ear-to-ear*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 41 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Sat, Feb 19, 2000 (23:16) * 1 lines
Let me get in here a minute. As a former manager of a Tahitian Black Pearl Store, let me say that Mikimoto is not in the Black Pearl business, as much as he supplies seeders to the Tahitian growers. This is for a fee, and also in exchange for a much reduced price on Blacks. Face it; the Japanese are the most successful in the world at grafting oysters. How to tell if a pearl is a Tahitian?... size IS everything. The PINCTADA MARGUERITIFERA oyster, known as the black lipped oyster, produces pearls between 9 and 15 mm, with some larger ones on occasion. I have sold a matched set of three bronze Tahitians at 13mm, and have handled one beauty that was 25mm. If a pearl is under 9mm, the chances are over 90% that it is a dyed white pearl. The only exception is if you have proof of growing location, as the Marquesas islands are growing some smaller ones in their colder water, but the color is not as good as it should be.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 42 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sat, Feb 19, 2000 (23:21) * 1 lines
Lance! E Komo Mai! I am delighted to read your post. We have needed an expert in the business...and you will be ours, please? Which color of Tahitian Black Pearls is the most costly and which the least? Given that the size and shape are not part of the equation. Yippee! We finally have someone who really knows his pearls...*grin*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 43 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (00:01) * 2 lines
As I recall, Your Tahitian Black Pearl is mounted in a gold scallop shell and suspended in your suprasternal notch by a slender gold chain which makes it appear to float there. Most attractive...
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 44 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (00:02) * 2 lines
Size and shape ARE the equation. Color is the most subjective catagory, and totally a personal choice. My experience says that dark, shiny greens and rainbows of green, blue, and pink are the most prized, but not always. Luster and depth of color are far more important. If a pearl is highly lusterous, and the color seems to emanate from deep inside, not just painted on the surface, it is a much better pearl. Size comes in after the pearl is 12mm. From 9 - 12mm, the price increases steadily. From 12mm up, it increases exponentially!A good 12mm could retail at 800- 1000, but a 13 of the same shape and color will be 1000 - 1500! The 13mm's I sold went for 12000 as a set, due to their size, rare color, and exceptional luster. My rule-of-thumb is that you should go by the color of your skin. Lighter skinned people should wear lighter pearls, say light greens, light blues, pinks, greys, and combos. Darker skinned people should wear darker greens, true blacks, as well as combos. Get what you like in co
or is the only way to go. But get the highest luster and the best depth of color possible for quality.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 45 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (00:04) * 1 lines
This man K N O W S his pearls!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 46 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (00:15) * 1 lines
Thanks.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 47 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (01:12) * 6 lines
Then, by saying that size IS the equation, there is not a rare color or combination of colors? I cannot believe some you showed me are all the same price aside from the gold mounting. They were all about the same size but what a variety of colors they were!
This is the best collection of colors of black pearls I could find tonight. Comments, Lance?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 48 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (01:15) * 1 lines
I think if I am ever fortunate enough to own one, I am taking him along with me to guide me in my choice...*grin*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 49 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (17:21) * 11 lines
Hi Lance! Any samples or rejects?
Since you mentioned that Mikimoto was not in the black pearl business, I went back to my old comments at the beginning of this topic. I questioned that too, but Marcia said that Mikimoto had established an operation in Tonga.
I still have that Bailey Banks & Biddle catalog with the simple, yet elegant necklace on the cover (which I will scan in one of these days). The Mikimoto trademarked name is there, as well as on a page with their overpriced regular pearls.
I've never understood how anyone could wear such a huge pearl on a ring, which is how I see them used all the time. Criminy, it would get banged up and nicked. It would probably come out of its mounting and get lost. If anyone had a long strand of them, no one would believe they were real (pop-in beads more like). Earrings work ok for me.
As a former manager of a Tahitian Black Pearl Store, let me say that Mikimoto is not in the Black
Pearl business, as much as he supplies seeders to the Tahitian growers. This is for a fee, and also in exchange for a much
reduced price on Blacks.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 50 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (17:26) * 1 lines
Marcia was quoting Mikimoto's web site... I shall look again to see what they are saying these days in preparation for Lance's return. I hate to disseminate erroneous information...aaarrrrgh!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 51 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (17:32) * 2 lines
I always said the only way I'd have my ears pierced was if I had the offer of a Karat Diamond for each ear. Black pearls might also be an inducement, but I still say, if I am gonna wear something that lovely, I want to be able to see it, too. A pendant is excellent. As for the ring, one wears them only to the opera, restaurant or cocktail party. Pearls on fingers are not a everyday item.
Detergents will ruin them! (Lance, where are you? Did I err?!)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 52 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (17:44) * 2 lines
Karat Diamond for each ear.
Works for me too. BTW, what's the topic number for mineral-type gems? I have a question for you.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 53 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (17:49) * 2 lines
http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/Geo/8/new
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 54 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (19:41) * 25 lines
Another type of natural colored pearls:
History of South Seas Pearls
Throughout history, the most beautiful pearls were natural South Sea Pearls.
Extremely rare, these pearls were by far the largest pearls in the world,
and possessed a wonderful array of natural colours and shapes, and emitted
a distinctive warm glow from their thick pearly nacre.
Found in the large, rare and beautiful Pinctada Maxima shell species,
these wonderful pearls were considered to be the "queen of all gems" by
many cultures around the world. The habitat of these extraordinary shells
(also known as the "Silver-Lipped Mother of Pearl Shell") is confined
to a small area of ocean commonly referred to as the "South Seas",
centred around Northern Australia and South-East Asia.
For centuries, pearlers dived for these exotic shells for the valuable
Mother of Pearl for the world's button trade. Only occasionally, pearls
were found inside Mother of Pearl shells, and these pearls were
regarded as a rare and valuable bonus to any pearler's catch of shell.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 55 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:02) * 3 lines
http://www.tahiti-blackpearls.com/ is the official website of Tahiti Black Pearls. They have some really lovely specimens from prominent jewellers. Harry Winston has a killer bracelet, and Mikimoto presents this:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 56 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:20) * 2 lines
The deep colors of black, gray, pink, and bronze pearls:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 57 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:23) * 1 lines
Oh my... *jaw dropping* Am consoling myself that I don't have the neck to wear such a thing. Is there surgery to elongate a neck? ;-)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 58 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:24) * 4 lines
My personal favorite (though the above one would do nicely, I think...)
Pearl and diamond parure consisting of a necklace, a removable pendant and a pair of pendant earrings for a total of 18 carats of diamonds and 33 pearls.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 59 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:25) * 1 lines
And I have a swan neck I am always hanging things around to distract the eye from its length...
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 60 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:28) * 4 lines
In the category of "this should never happen to beautiful natural gems:
Yellow gold necklace with Tahitian pearls, rubies, cabochons and brilliant-cut diamonds.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 61 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:28) * 1 lines
I'll go shopping at the site later, but I noticed that there's an auction coming up soon. BWAAA
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 62 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:29) * 1 lines
You're v. right. That is truly hideous. Who is the designer?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 63 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:35) * 1 lines
Gilbert Albert. I went through all of the jewelers on the left column. Stunning pearls! Wait'll Lance sees'um...! Luckily I have Nothing that goes with that last one...that goodness *grin* Yeah, I noticed that they were having an auction, too...*sigh*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 64 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 20, 2000 (20:37) * 1 lines
...thank goodness...I was overwhelmed by the last gaudy item and got it all wrong...*lol* I'd love to see the prices on some of those, but "if you have to ask...."
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 65 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 21, 2000 (21:09) * 0 lines
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 66 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 21, 2000 (21:28) * 0 lines
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 67 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 21, 2000 (21:39) * 0 lines
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 68 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 21, 2000 (22:03) * 1 lines
Nothing like posting the wrong pictures and text in the wrong topic and doing it three times to get it right...! *sigh*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 69 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Wed, Feb 23, 2000 (00:17) * 1 lines
Shoot! And I was expecting to see more purty things that I couldn't afford. ;-)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 70 of 426: World Builder (MarciaH) * Wed, Feb 23, 2000 (00:50) * 1 lines
I shall - but megaliths for around your neck is not what you wanted to see. Promise more tomorrow *grin* I need to see them, too *sigh*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 71 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Feb 27, 2000 (00:54) * 1 lines
So much for "tomorrow night..." Lance has not abandoned Geo. He is back working on his degree and has to prioritize his time. Geo comes pretty far down the list of things to do, I'm afraid. But, as long as I am here, he will not be far away.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 72 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (16:39) * 1 lines
I'd like to ask about a gem which is currently very popular in jewelery designs -- tanzanite. What is it exactly? I mean, I know that rubies are chemically the same as sapphires. Actually they're just red sapphires, just a lot more rare than other color sapphires, consequently worth much more. I also think that emeralds and aquamarines are chemically similar, but I might be wrong on that.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 73 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (17:06) * 1 lines
wow! those pearls are gorgeous! thanks lance for jumping in with some expertise. i've never really cared for pearls although i have a pearl bracelet still waiting to be restrung (creamy colored-don't tell me it's fake and dyed and stuff)....*plugging fingers into ears and singing "lalalalala"*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 74 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (17:09) * 3 lines
tanzanite is intriguing and only now gaining in popularity, cheryl, which is why they're expensive these days. i bought one right before the boom in a 10K setting (marquis center and trillion sides) i've had it checked and it's tanzanite and beautiful! the color changes when you tilt it and with the light by which you view the stones.
according to my gem book, tanzanite is a variety of zoisite. (wrong topic, sorry marcia 8grin*)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 75 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (17:59) * 3 lines
Thanks, Wolfie - you're spot-on with your Tanzanite. It is the only clear and flawless form of Zoisite - discovered totally by accident in 1967.
LOLROTF...I can just imagine you with fingers in your ears and singing so you cannot hear what you don't wanna hear. I'm with you! I have Lance in my tender care. He has exams today and this week so it will be a bit before he is able to post again. I shall tell him he is appreciated, however *smile*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 76 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (18:11) * 1 lines
I love pearls, the subtle irredescence of their colors. They impress, without being flashy. (There's nothing wrong with flash, sometimes it's great.) I saw the most beautiful pearl necklace in New York. It was black Tahitian deep water pearls set in platinum, very spare and elegant design, possibly Japanese. The necklace looked really good in Cartier's window; and given the state of my finances that's were it stayed.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 77 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (18:18) * 2 lines
I have that picture, Cheryl! Or at least one of Cartier's creations:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 78 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (18:43) * 1 lines
That's pretty much it. The one I saw was very slightly different, but not much. Thanks. Now I can enjoy the image. I really do love the way pearls softly diffuse light over there surfaces.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 79 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (18:47) * 5 lines
Anyone ever see a pearl this color?
Spiral brooch in yellow gold, set with trapeze diamonds,
Pendant with round diamond, trapeze diamond
and one 14.42 carat pearl.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 80 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (18:49) * 1 lines
I do not own anything in real pearls whatsoever, but they are exquisite and flatter the wearer no matter who. Someday...perhaps...
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 81 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (18:55) * 9 lines
This pearl has the lovliest color but I do not care for the setting:
A brooch/pendant in yellow and white gold set with
rose-cut diamonds
Drop earrings with a leaf design set with 230 diamonds weighing
9.95 carats, a 35.68-carats Tahitian pearl and a 31.58-carats white
pearl on white and yellow gold.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 82 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (18:57) * 3 lines
Nope. I have never seen a reddish pearl. I've seen rose pearls, they're pink, but never anything which looked so red. There are very large orange pearls which come from a type of shellfish which live off the coast of Viet Nam.
I have some high quality cream colored faux pearls, which have ground up pearls in them. I quess the pearls which were ground were a little too irregular to qualify as baroque.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 83 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:01) * 2 lines
Your pearls sound lovely. I have mentioned the orange pearls up topic somewhere...they are pretty but only as objects, I think - unless you are a die-hard Tennessee Fan (the University of Tennessee's colors are orange and white) Here are two rings Karen worried about wearing and harming the high-mounted pearl:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 84 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:08) * 3 lines
You're right about the large orange pearls pretty as objects. As far as I know they're not used in jewelery. But you never know when you'll see some die-hard Tennesee fan on tv sporting an enormous orange pearl.
The broach/pendant you posted was little too much. The pearl was beautiful, but the setting -- in a word, gaudy. The rings are beautiful. I understand why Karen would worry about the high mounting, and pearls are delicate as gems go. Some people won't wear a large pearl set in a ring at all.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 85 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:14) * 0 lines
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 86 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:16) * 0 lines
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 87 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:17) * 0 lines
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 88 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:20) * 1 lines
Cheryl, I don't know what is happening with Yapp and Spring today but when I deleted the multiple posts of the pearl rings, it took your posting with it. Could you please comment again?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 89 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:20) * 1 lines
those rings are a bit much for me and so was that brooch! but the red pearl, it looked translucent. it's real? have only heard of the black and creamy pearls but red and then orange?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 90 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:21) * 1 lines
I give up. Your post showed up again and so did another set of rings. I'm gonna leave them alone until it settles down.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 91 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:26) * 5 lines
I think I can. You're right the large orange pearls are admired as objects in their own right, as far as I know they're not used in jewelery. Although you never know when you'll tune into a college football game and see a Tennessee fan sporting a large orange pearl.
I agree with your assessment of the pearl broach/pendant; the pearl is exquisite -- but the setting is in a word, gaudy.
As for Karen worrying about the high setting of the pearls, I can completely understand that. Pearls are delicate as gems go, and some people would never wear a large pearl in a ring because of that. The rings are beautiful though.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 92 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:26) * 1 lines
Those big heavy rings are set in solid platinum! The red "pearl" looks like a polished ruby or garnet or whatever, but you can see through it. Gonna send it to Lance to see what he says. Sorry for all of the mess here. Three repeats of those rings we did not need here!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 93 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (19:34) * 6 lines
Now, for being so patient and helping me through the Yapp software mess:
Double-strand necklace of 64 pearls totaling 640.4 carats and
diamonds totaling 7.71 carats.
Matching ring and earrings.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 94 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (20:31) * 30 lines
Here are a group of South Seas Pearls
Some colours have become more popular
than others in particular markets.(eg. white in
America, silver in Asia, gold and fancy colours
in the 1990's) This sometimes causes a price
premium on the particular colour. This factor
varies over time and with fashions and due to
the dictates and changes in fashion, colour will
never be as important a measure of quality as
lustre.
Colour categories of Australian South Sea
Pearls:
White (including white - pink)
Silver (including silver - pink)
Gold (yellow)
Fancy (including champagne, apricot, peach &
rose)
Tip: When purchasing a pearl, the best
colour is the one that looks most
attractive on your particular complexion.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 95 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (20:38) * 1 lines
oh boy, this wolfie is drooling! couldn't you see that pearl necklace set on a woman wearing a simple black dress with nothing else to adorn her? upswept hair so the necklace would be seen. oh, how lovely!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 96 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (21:08) * 1 lines
That one is my favorite...with the diamonds sparkling and setting off the pendant earrings and necklace. Yes! Absolutely plain black dress...upswept hair...Long neck...elegant bearing...exquisite!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 97 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (21:19) * 2 lines
Another South Seas Pearl in a lovely setting:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 98 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Mon, Feb 28, 2000 (22:20) * 1 lines
now i like that one! very pretty and elegant!!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 99 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (00:48) * 11 lines
A red pearl? That's a new one for me. Unfortunately, what's the use of having it when it looks like a cabochon red something. :-(
Getting back to those precariously set pearls, I couldn't wear it. I'd be petrified that it would get knocked out of the setting and I'd lose it. I'm not that worried about nicking it, but losing it. Look, ma, no pearl.
Speaking of which, I got a pearl ring as a present from my grandmother ages ago. What was really bizarre is that a rod went through the pearl. It had been drilled. No way to lose that baby and I got to play with it all the time, twirling to my heart's delight.
One last word on Tanzanite (aside from wanting to kick myself for not buying it while there) is that you'll rarely find large stones.
Back to our regular organic subject...
Fabulous pictures, Marcia. That's all I needed before I head off for slumberland.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 100 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (00:53) * 3 lines
All pearls which are not strung are set on posts and epoxied into place. Nothing will dislodge them but you can bash them in against a brick wall or whatever. Wear them to the opera - not to weed the garden.
Gonna send that red pearl to Lance right away...See what he says.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 101 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (00:56) * 3 lines
That's true about the epoxy and the posts...but but but
I really can't take a ring that's sitting a couple of feet above your knuckle.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 102 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (01:03) * 1 lines
I agree with you...I'd be hitting it against everything. Even with that massive platinum setting. They are not for me!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 103 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (14:40) * 4 lines
Lance was kind enough to give me a reasonable explanation for the pearl which looked like a ruby:
What happened is that the flash has accented the color beyond normal. It is
a burgundy, which is rare, but I have seen them. They are lovely.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 104 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (16:01) * 3 lines
a burgundy? but why does it look so translucent?
and karen, i've only seen smaller pieces of tanzanite. wonder why that is.....
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 105 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (16:39) * 1 lines
Bounce reflection fooling the eye? I'll have to check it again...
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 106 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (16:44) * 3 lines
http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/Geo/18.79
Ok, I checked and can see how it could be a pearl. Flash distortion.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 107 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (19:24) * 1 lines
i looked again, guess it's not as translucent as i had originally thought. think it was that flash shining on it that did it. it's still beautiful, but never having heard of i would've thought a pearl that color was fake. very pretty!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 108 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (19:35) * 1 lines
He suggested a $15,000 price for it...but probably just for that pearl. All those diamonds are gonna cost ya (especially with a one-of-a-kind hand-crafted piece of jewelry.)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 109 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (20:16) * 3 lines
For Lance who is a black Kelt of the Welsh sort and all others who celebrate St David's Day by putting a leak in their hats:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 110 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (22:54) * 0 lines
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 111 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (22:54) * 0 lines
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 112 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 29, 2000 (22:57) * 2 lines
For those who have known and love the Welsh language and people:
Cymru am Byth
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 113 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (00:16) * 2 lines
i've only seen smaller pieces of tanzanite. wonder why that is.....
So far, that's the only way they've found it. Just forms that way, I guess. The same goes for peridot in Arizona and a lot of the neat colored sapphires from Sri Lanka and Australia. Big formations appear to be very rare.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 114 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (00:35) * 7 lines
OK, got another type of pearl for y'all:
but the one I have is closer to this one, long and simple.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 115 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (00:41) * 1 lines
Gnarly!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 116 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (13:24) * 3 lines
that's quite a change from all the round pearls. it looks more natural to me. lovely, karen!
marcia, what's the phrase mean?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 117 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (14:28) * 3 lines
aarrrgh! I have misplaced my Welsh Dictionary, so I will have to rely on Anne's Welsh-speaking husband for a translation, unless someone comes to my rescue before she gets online.
I'm not a fancier of lumpy pearls, but Mabe' pearls are beautiful.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 118 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (18:43) * 5 lines
I love Mabe pearls. As for lumpy ones, I wouldn't mind a strand of baroque pearls. They're not perfectly round, just a little irregular, but more or less round. As for round pearls, what can you say, the white-cream ones look like miniature moons. Which is perfect. The moon causes tides, and pearls come from the ocean.
I once saw a strand of beautifully matched blue pearls; they mostly blue, but had the most wonderful green-gray, slightly peach sheen.
I hope someone knows what the Welsh phrase is. I think the word "Cymru" is what the Welsh call themselves, or is it their country? Or both?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 119 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (18:51) * 3 lines
I sent it off to Anne but she is not yet awake, I think. They are the Cymri and the country is Cymru. If I had to guess, I'd say "Wales forever" - like Erin go bragh (or however that is spelled) for "Ireland forever".
Those silvery to orange South Seas pearls I posted the picture of back a few postings just might be like those pearls you saw. I just am not fond of baroque pearls which look like painted wads of chewed gum. Some do! I like braided ropes of baroque freshwater pearls interspersed with garnets and gold spacers.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 120 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (19:00) * 3 lines
Agreed, some baroque pearls are a little too, err, lumpy. They should atleast be mostly spherical, only just a little asymetrical.
We haven't really touched on freshwater pearls. I do like them. Not as refined as ocean pearls, but charming in their own right. Garnets and pearls always make a good combination.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 121 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (19:18) * 1 lines
...and here they mix them with rosy-orange coral and peridots and they look like little flowers interspersed amongst the pearls. They are mostly warm-weather jewelry rather than sea pearls which are more formal and are for all seasons.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 122 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (19:32) * 3 lines
I'm really ambivilent about coral. I love the orangy-rose color, but I worry about coral reef destruction.
I do have a piece of jewelry of a very politically incorrect substance -- ivory. No catcalls, please. It's vintage. I received it as a birthday gift, a carved ivory carnation stick pin, circa 1910. So I can wear it good consceince.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 123 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (19:55) * 13 lines
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/pearl/freshwater.html is a great resource from a NOVA program on growing pearls. Pretty pictures, as well.
There are some really good freshwater pearl places on the web but the pictures are pathetic. This one has good links and pictures you will find hard to believe - like the one mussel shell producing 10 or more beautifully-colored pearls. http://www.pearloasis.com/freshwater.html
These are the most beatiful pearls I have seen from the luster point of view.
South seas:
Tahiti Black:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 124 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (19:58) * 4 lines
South seas:
Don't worry about reef coral. Precious coral, whether black, oxblood, or orange do not grow as reefs. They grow like little trees all by themselves planted in the sandy bottom like separate rose bushes.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 125 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:00) * 1 lines
That is the most beautiful pearl. It is perfect, perfectly shaped, perfect lustre. It really is exquisite, which is a word very often misused, but not in this case.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 126 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:05) * 1 lines
um....don't tell anyone...but I have a whole necklace of Ivory (yes, the worst kind) carved to replicate pikake (jasmine) blossoms. I have never worn it and it is an antique. Totally legal. I just don't want any dead elephants around my neck!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 127 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:05) * 1 lines
That is the most beautiful pearl. It is perfect, perfectly shaped, perfect lustre. It really is exquisite, which is a word very often misused, but not in this case.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 128 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:08) * 1 lines
I'm delighted you like that black pearl. I had to make that image mine when I saw it and to share it with you. It beggars the language to find words praiseworthy enough to describe its beauty. The South Seas is not bad, either, but is far behind the black one in luster.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 129 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:11) * 1 lines
the black one looks metallic.....
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 130 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:18) * 1 lines
I have all sorts of hematite beads and hunks and polished pocket stones. They have a very hard brilliant luster which lacks the depth of that black pearl. I should hunt up a picture of one such for comparison - off I go!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 131 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:20) * 1 lines
i've got a hematite band ring. very shiny grayish black.....don't wear it very often though.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 132 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:32) * 8 lines
Cymru am Byth = WALES FOREVER!!
hematite earrings:
More pearls:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 133 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:35) * 1 lines
What I am seeing as differentiating the hematite from the pearl is that in the luster of the hematite I see a cold steely-blueishness and in the pearl I see a warm slightly yellowishness or golden sheen ... does this make sense?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 134 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:37) * 1 lines
perfect sense!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 135 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:42) * 1 lines
Thank you! I also have ring guards of hematite, and of carnelian and of Jade and onyx (black) Don't wear mine much, either, but they are lovely in an arrangement on my specimen display-go-round.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 136 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (20:44) * 1 lines
a ring guard of hematite? sounds neat. my hematite ring was one of those $5 jobs you find at festivals and such.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 137 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (21:34) * 1 lines
So is mine a $5 one. I got two of them ('cause they are skinny and the jade and carnelian are fat ones) Next time you see one, get another one and put a silver or gold band between them - or that Avon amethyst...! I have little hands and small fingers so I try to keep larger stones from rotating under my hand by putting guards around them. The Alexandrite has two thin braided gold bands either side of it to keep it on top of my hand and to set it off. Looks lovely!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 138 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (21:35) * 1 lines
the hematite band is 1/4" or so wide. much too big to put that little amethyst between.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 139 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (21:41) * 2 lines
No wonder. Mine are only 1/2 that wide. The others are like that, though!
I'll bet it is pretty!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 140 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (21:45) * 1 lines
all of the ones on that display were that wide. will have to look for one smaller, next time. it bothers my finger because of the width.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 141 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (21:53) * 1 lines
I know about the feeling on your finger...and in warm humid climates moisture tends to stay under there and soon your finger is less than well and the skin starts coming off. Not a great thing!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 142 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (22:01) * 1 lines
all the rings come off at the end of the day (maybe sooner during the summer)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 143 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (22:03) * 1 lines
g'night marcia dear! (stayed up toooo late last night)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 144 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (22:08) * 1 lines
*g'night Woofie *hugs*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 145 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (00:00) * 13 lines
Hello Everyone! Looks like something got started here. As Marcia said, I've been in Mid-Terms, and trying to pick a school for next year, as I'm at a Community College now. Now, for a few comments.
On entry 47, if you number L-R,[1-8], #'s 2,7,& 8 are the rarest, and 1,3,and 4 are the most common.
Karen- If you can afford to buy it, you WILL be careful. This is feedback I've gotten from customers. You are very aware of the piece, and change your body movements to accomodate the pearl.
Marcia- No, Detergents ARE terrible. Oil from your skin or Ex.Virgin Olive Oil are best for storage or for brightening up a pearl.
I disagree, entry 60 is a KILLER piece!!! I'd love to have a crack at selling that!
Wolf- From your description, I'm 99% sure it's real. A good fake cream is hard to find.
#75- Thanks, Marcia!
#81- The pearl is a Bronze/Brown over another layer of Burgundy/Black. VERY rare 4 color mix!
Not a "South Seas" pearl to experts, but Australian Gold Lipped oyster pearls. Grown on the North and NW coasts. HUGE size, 15 - 30 mm.! Also, excellent Mabe. The tip on choosing is spot on perfect.
113 and 114 and definately baroques, probably freshwater from China from the snowy shade.
The photos have been bothering people with the colors. Understand, please, that pearls are actually crystalline in structure. They are composed of calcium carbonite formed into crystals called argonite, and held together in a protein/tissue matrix. This makes pearls the only stone that can absorb and hold oils and water. There is even a debate over whether pearls are alive or not because of the tissue in the pearl. But the argonite causes light to bend when directed into a cultured pearl in a way that a traineed eye can see the core irritant, and use that to help determine the quality. A pearl that is large, but has little nacre,[or pearl coating], is not as valuable or desired as one of the same size that has a thick coating. Pearls that stay in the oyster longer have more coating, but also risks flaws developing the longer it stays. Number 79, the burgundy, is a good example of how to look. You can plainly see the dark circle in the center, which is the core. It is a rare color, but not quite as
thick a nacre as I would like. But since these oysters are pulled up and x-rayed yearly to check on pearl growth, I would have extracted that one myself. Good size and perfect shape!
Marcia- Thank for the Flag. Lovely.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 146 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (00:13) * 1 lines
Whew! Thanks! I have to check back and see what things refer to...but I am as sure he is right about it as anyone on earth can be. I appreciate it. I am more than ever positive Lance is going with me when / if I ever own a real pearl of any sort!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 147 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (00:50) * 1 lines
#114 Tennessee freshwater and baroque of course. :-)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 148 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (01:00) * 1 lines
Karen- Thought that was Tennessee! Saw them when they first hit the market. Not bad quality. Photos better than I thought it would. Fooled me. As good in photos as Yalu Chinese.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 149 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (01:03) * 1 lines
Sheesh...gotta go back and look...I'm lost!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 150 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (01:05) * 1 lines
I found a shot of tennessee freshwater pearls which were orange...peachy orange. You'd have to root for Tennessee to wear them! I'll post the pix tommorrow.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 151 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (08:50) * 3 lines
Sorry, decided to go to sleep.
Yes, they're Tennessee. The one I have is not as "gnarly" as the second, Marcia. It is about 1-1/2" in length and a long oval shape, set with tip guards on the two ends. Very simple. It has to be one of my favorites and I wear it all the time.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 152 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (12:09) * 3 lines
tennessee pearls? (i get the color and rooting for them) they grow pearls in tennessee? (am a total duncecap today)....
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 153 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (14:18) * 29 lines
http://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/gemstones/sp14-95/pearls.html
Demand for U.S. freshwater pearls is a function of quality. Quality is determined by the size, color, shape, degree of
translucency, texture, ability to match and blend, and luster. Usually, the quality of U.S. freshwater pearls is as good or better
than any other pearl. The possible exceptions are the availability of round pearls and the ability to match colors. Yet, it is
thought by some that these exceptions are not detrimental, but that the variety of shapes and colors available are
advantageous and are positive selling points.
To date, 31 different States have reported production of freshwater pearls and shell. During 1993, 18 States reported
production, they were Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri,
Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin. The bulk of the shell
and pearl production came from Tennessee, Arkansas, Alabama, and Louisiana.
Figure 6.--Freshwater, Pearls from Tennessee.
(Photo is courtesy of American Pearl Co.)
There is some U.S. production of saltwater pearls. Abalone from along the Pacific Coast, primarily California, produce both
blister and free pearls and their shells are used for inlay in jewelry and other items. The pearls are green, blue-green, yellow,
or pink in color and may have high luster, but the texture is always coarser than that of other pearls. Some of the pearls are
very large, as large as 60 carats each.
It also appears that attempts are underway to start a saltwater cultured pearl industry in Hawaii. The Hawaiian industry would
be based upon saltwater oysters. Only time will tell of the success or failure of the abalone and Hawaiian cultured pearl
programs.
It appears that the U.S. freshwater shell and pearl industries are well and growing. The pearls are beautiful, valuable, and the
consumer is willing to purchase and wear them. The oldest of U.S. gemstones is doing well and its future is bright.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 154 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (14:35) * 10 lines
Where is Lance when I need him?! How do carats equate to size in mm's? Btw, his 12 mm Tahitian pearl is quite large - and very noticeable on him - and he is a big guy. It is, however, protected from getting oiled by his body by the gold scallop shell in which it is mounted. I have noticed him fingering it a lot, though...
Another Tennessee example which is not so extreme:
Nature's beautiful gift, Tennessee freshwater pearls are all pearl, all
the way through. These three lustrous, Tennessee freshwater pearls
are nestled in free-form 14k gold tracery.
Price includes shipping and handling.
Sabrina - Pearl Ring USP1$448.00
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 155 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (15:06) * 3 lines
carats = weight
Re: American pearls (also from those websites) Apparently, the mollusk shells are exported to Japan and they form the nucleus of most of their pearls.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 156 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (15:33) * 3 lines
I realize carats = weight. But, I can visualize a 2 carat diamond. I cannot relate to 60 karat pearl. 12 mm I can visualize. I would imagine that the makeup of the pearl also affects the weight so it may just be a rough estimation. I am sure he has an excellent answer which I will let him post in here rather than email-and-post the answer. That gets to be an old thing!
Ah...they are not only seeding the pearls, they are seeding the stream beds, as well. Interesting!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 157 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (15:35) * 1 lines
Btw, those USGS websites I posted the URL for above has a page on every gem and a lovely picture or two. It is a great resource.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 158 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (15:44) * 1 lines
cool beans. ok, now another dumb question: cultured pearls; does that mean they have the sand planted in the oyster (or mollusk) to develop a pearl?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 159 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (15:56) * 3 lines
Geo Motto: There are no Dumb Questions. On occasion I may give dumb answers, but the questions are what keeps us going! Now, Onto Wolfie's question...
They usually have a shaped pellet placed in them (until Lance can get here to tell you) They used to use small glass spheres. Yup! You are correct! See?!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 160 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (16:00) * 1 lines
so you'd be really lucky, then, to find a "naturally" occuring pearl (and probably have to dive real deep too). i have a picture of buddha casts placed in an oyster for pearalizing (in my gembook).....
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 161 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (16:42) * 3 lines
I've never heard carat used with pearls - only mm. Was that in a description up above? Since we were on the subject of opals (on the other subject but does anyone care), they aren't measured in carats either.
Love them mabes too.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 162 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (17:01) * 1 lines
Cultured pearls are real pearls, but the deep water pearls have a mystique and romance. But both can be very beautiful.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 163 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (17:55) * 1 lines
Some of those jewels I posted had the pearl weight rather than size listed. Curious! Opals have water in them so they cannot! I have something to post on opals shortly...working my way over to the hard stuff!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 164 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 3, 2000 (19:49) * 6 lines
If this duplicates what Lance said last night in his posts, please forgive me. He said this regarding the image of the solitary black pearl of great beauty:
It's got very nice luster, shape, and depth of color, but I would need to
see it personally to judge the color itself. It appears to be a bit lacking
in brightness, something which many value, but my experience says the
average consumer doesn't want. Most people want more brilliance in the
color they choose, not just in the luster.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 165 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Mar 9, 2000 (02:42) * 3 lines
Since I did not make it clear who wrote the stirring and poetic comments on
http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/geo/2.13
It was Lance who wrote those words, not David. Dave is usually deep in the lava fields just ahead of the flow front. Lance, when you visit Hilo again, I hope you will be able to show me how lovely that must be.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 166 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Thu, Mar 9, 2000 (14:48) * 1 lines
marcia, give me the name of your "how to buy jems" book...i looked and looked all over a bookstore and found nothing....
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 167 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Mar 9, 2000 (14:50) * 1 lines
Simon and Schuster's Guide to Gems and Precious Stones
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 168 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Thu, Mar 9, 2000 (14:52) * 1 lines
that's what i thought, thank you!!!!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 169 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Mar 9, 2000 (14:54) * 1 lines
They have a companion book for rocks and minerals which is also excellent
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 170 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Thu, Mar 9, 2000 (15:03) * 1 lines
i saw that one....when i go back, i'll pick that one up too!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 171 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Mar 9, 2000 (15:32) * 1 lines
They work very well together...and they are sitting on my book shelf right next to me! Great photos as well. Enjoy! I got the set for David, as well!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 172 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Sat, Mar 11, 2000 (16:52) * 1 lines
I have found the perfect Mothers' Day gift. It's a 36" strand of freshwater pearls with small accents of amethyst, blue topaz, citrine, and peridot. Very pretty. I think Mom will like it.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 173 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Sat, Mar 11, 2000 (21:59) * 1 lines
do ya have a pic?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 174 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Mar 11, 2000 (23:25) * 1 lines
This mom would love it!!! But, this mom is not going to get it, I think. Please post a picture or send it to me and I will post it!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 175 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Sun, Mar 19, 2000 (16:46) * 3 lines
Couple of quickies.... #154- carats ARE weight. I don't remember the correlation, but try mommes. That's the Japanese measurement for pearl weight.
On #160, a good point was raised. Surprisingly, there is no difference in price between cultured and 'natural' pearls on the open market. There probably should be, but if there was, it is thought that the pearl oyster species would soon be extinct in the mad search for pearls. As far as the core, or seed, goes, it is logically now made of rounded pieces of the same mollusk shell that is being grafted, i.e., black-lipped shell for black pearls, Tennessee mussle shell for Tennessee pearls, and so forth.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 176 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Mar 19, 2000 (16:56) * 5 lines
I much prefer the size designation. We are used to a one or half carat daimond and think everything else of that weight should be that size. Wrong! CZ's weigh twice as much as diamonds so a 1 carat CZ is half the size of the same weight diamond...and so on.
Thanks for the information on seeding the oysters. I was taught it was an irritant that caused the oyster to secrete nacre to smooth over the rough places. If the seed is not rough will a pearl for anyway? And, how do they get them to make Mabe pearls?
Lance, we have missed you!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 177 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Sun, Mar 19, 2000 (17:11) * 1 lines
Oh, yes. Anything in the right place is an irritant. Just ask anyone who wears false teeth! The seeds are smooth now to encourage smooth secretions by the oyster. Mabe pearls are made on the shell. A small form of plastic is glued on the shell, sometimes more than one at a time, and the oyster is then going to coat that with nacre. By the way, Tahiti and Australia started a good ecological trend with they're oysters. Because of the rarity, the oysters are babied in special nets, harvested after a couple of years, the good ones then are placed back in to breed a year, then implanted again. This can go for 2-3 cycles. On the last cycle, the Mabe pearls are made, as the oyster must be killed to harvest the shells. Sound ecology, that.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 178 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Mar 19, 2000 (17:22) * 1 lines
I am suddenly even more of a fan of pearls than ever before (but still without same)... it is good to know they are not sacrificing one for one to harvest the pearls. Too bad they cannot make a decent pearl out of a tridachna!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 179 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Mar 19, 2000 (17:34) * 1 lines
I imagine drilling would be facilitated by having the same material at the center than a foreign pellet of differing hardness. Not a great place to have the drill bit go off of center line!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 180 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Sat, Mar 25, 2000 (13:02) * 1 lines
Not just drilling is improved, but the cement used to hold the pearl in place will hold better by being formulated to one substance rather than two.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 181 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Mar 25, 2000 (13:27) * 1 lines
Yippee! Good morning, Lance. Incredible to see you *happy me*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 182 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Mar 25, 2000 (13:28) * 1 lines
Stronger bond was something I did not think about as regards the inner post adhesive. Definitely an advantage. Thanks *hugs*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 183 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Mar 25, 2000 (19:18) * 1 lines
What sort of number of Black Tahitian Pearls are harvested each year? Is there a cartel involved, such as DeBeers is in diamonds, to keep the prices high and the investment value intact?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 184 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Mar 25, 2000 (19:19) * 1 lines
Or the Austalian or Tennessee pearls, as well? America has another gem claim-to-fame but I am posting it in Geo 8 to keep it on topic.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 185 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (19:06) * 3 lines
There it is!! (the one in lower right) Finally got around to scanning Mikimoto's Black Tahitian cultured pearl necklace. Its in 18K white gold, with 2 bezel set diamonds on a gorgeous omega chain. Price was $1,800; now is $2,000 according to the latest catalogue from Bailey Banks and Biddle. I don't know the mm of the pearl, but does not look to be any larger than 8 mm (by my practiced eye) ;-)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 186 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (19:09) * 3 lines
Probably could've scanned the entire catalogue, but here's another from the Mikimoto page that I liked and could definitely wear this to an upcoming wedding.
![]()
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 187 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (19:10) * 3 lines
Ooops. Let me try this again:
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 188 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (19:23) * 1 lines
OOoh, Me too. I love the mounting for the white pearl, but it would be stunning with a black or aubergine Tahitian...*sigh* How much is the set with the white pearls? Thanks for the eye candy.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 189 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (21:04) * 1 lines
White pearl necklace (18K white gold and diamonds) is a very reasonable $2420. Matching earrings are a mere $1650. Shall I order them for you? Or can we get somebody to knock those off for a tenth of the price or less?
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 190 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (21:33) * 2 lines
It might be better to pay extra and one of us get one specially made with black pearls, while the other gets the white pearls. It would make for a nice change.
Same setting, of course...or, do you fancy the black one being set in yellow gold?!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 191 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (21:35) * 1 lines
BB&B does not know the meaning of discount unless a great deal has changed sinceI was last in their proximity.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 192 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (22:23) * 1 lines
gorgeous pearls, karen!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 193 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (23:23) * 1 lines
Don't we each need a set? I would not turn them down...
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 194 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Sat, Apr 15, 2000 (09:15) * 1 lines
Yes! (am having a hard time: "new roof? necklace?" "new roof" necklace?" terrible dilemma)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 195 of 426: Cheryl (CherylB) * Sat, Apr 15, 2000 (10:35) * 3 lines
Decisions, decisions. New roof -- necklace. You can get many years of use out of each of them. Actually the pearl necklace will outlast the roof, so as far as value for money goes -- the pearl necklace is the better investment. It just isn't the more practical choice.
Karen it is good to see you posting on the gems topic again. If you're not the goddess on this subject, you're an avatar at least.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 196 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Apr 15, 2000 (18:09) * 1 lines
*sigh*....i know...i know...
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 197 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Mon, Apr 24, 2000 (22:41) * 2 lines
Good eye, Karen. From the price, I judge the pearl to be approx. 9 - 9.5 mm. For a non-professional, very good estimate. Ladies, if you happen to live in an area where there is a pearl specialist, you'll get better quality AND price on Tahitians than from a BB&B, Zales, etc. The Big boys don't carry the volume to get quality, unless you can go to Cartier's or Harry Winston. They carry very nice pieces at reasonable prices, considering the quality of workmanship involved on the setting.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 198 of 426: lance8 (lance8) * Mon, Apr 24, 2000 (22:46) * 1 lines
As to how many are harvested, that is an ever increasing number, as more producers enter the market and production techniques improve. Mikimoto has a lot of control due to their supplying most of the men for the implant surgery. They have teamed with the largest producer, Robert Wan, in an unofficial cartel. I have no idea about the Aussie's plans.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 199 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Apr 24, 2000 (22:49) * 1 lines
*sigh* It is SO good to see you here....(melting in my chair)
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 200 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Mon, Apr 24, 2000 (22:54) * 1 lines
hi lance! (and marcia) and i'm the 200th post, what's my prize???? *laugh*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 201 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Apr 24, 2000 (22:57) * 1 lines
....Ummm...let me think about that. *grin* I know what you'd LIKE to have....
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 202 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Mon, Apr 24, 2000 (23:06) * 1 lines
indeed you do, marcia dear!
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 203 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Apr 24, 2000 (23:10) * 2 lines
*grin* but I cannot get that for you so getting something second best...*giggle*
...or third ...or fourth...
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 204 of 426: Wolf (wolf) * Mon, Apr 24, 2000 (23:12) * 5 lines
oh marcia!! *laugh*
(can't wait for your next box!!)
i've gotta go! g'night luv *HUGS*
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 205 of 426: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Apr 24, 2000 (23:48) * 3 lines
Lance, interesting stuff, and not surprising that Mikimoto is doing a DeBeers maneuver with Tahitian Black Pearls. Keep them stockpiled, scarce and pricey so businessmen like you can get rich enough to afford women like me *grin*
Wolfie...heh...heh...
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 206 of 426: Karen (KarenR) * Wed, Apr 26, 2000 (23:28) * 3 lines
Thanks for all the additional info, Lance. If I were really serious about that necklace (which I can't be right now), I'd go directly to someone in the business as I have for er...other items and driven them quite crazy.
Wouldn't there be a problem with the setting and design being exclusive to Zales/BB&B? When I've hit our Jewelry Row, they don't have access to the high-end designer stuff who work exclusively for certain stores.
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 207 of 426: Alexandrite (MarciaH) * Thu, Apr 27, 2000 (15:36) * 0 lines
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 208 of 426: Alexandrite (MarciaH) * Thu, Apr 27, 2000 (17:27) * 43 lines
The Merrie Monarch Hula Festival opens tonight (see Media - you can watch it live on the internet,) and The Black Pearl Gallery has some specials. Never saw one this blue:
Ocean Swim
This necklace has the look of a
whale's tail, in 18k yellow gold and
diamonds. This excellent quality
pearl has a brilliant blue green color.
The surface grade is A, and the form
is semi-round, measuring at 9.7mm.
The chain is 20 inches long, done in
18k yellow gold.The diamond weight
is .08 karats.
Order Now $1,575.00 Plus
Ocean Blue
This stunning necklace has
excellent quality round pearls. The
pearls are slightly graduated from
10.8 - 12.3mm. The primary color of
the pearls is blue.The surface grade
is B-C. The setting is 18k yellow
gold. Look for the matching bracelet:
Stock #: BRH43413501
Order Now $13,158.90 Plus
Harmony
A beautiful necklace that highlights
the color range of the Tahitian black
pearls, from light silver to deep blue.
These round pearls are excellent
quality, with a surface grade of A-B.
This strand is slightly graduated
from 9.-12.7mm, with 18k yellow
gold spacers. There are 36 pearls
strung on black silk to make a
stunning addition to your jewelry
collection.
Order Now $24,300.00 Plus
Topic 18 of 99 [Geo]: Precious Gems of Organic Origin: Animal, Plant and Oceanic Jewels
Response 209 of 426: Alexandrite (MarciaH) * Thu, Apr 27, 2000 (17:30) * 40 lines
Magnificent
An elegant design with 18k yellow
gold, diamonds, and an excellent
quality round pearl. The surface
grade is A, and the pearl measures
at 12.2mm. Rainbow is the way to
describe the colors that this pearl
reflects. The chain is 18 inches in
length. The VS diamond weight is
.25 karats.
Order Now $3,440.70 Plus
Unique Beauty
A exquisite necklace with two
beautiful round pearls. The surface
grade is A, and they measure at
12.5-12.8mm. The color of the top
pearl is silver blue, and the pearl
below is dark blue. The chain is 18k
yellow gold, 20 inches in length.The
diamonds add just enough sparkle.