Life in the Facet Lane with Diana Jarrett GC RMV

Rose Pearl Ring accented with Pink Sapphire and Diamonds Courtesy Paula Crevoshay

As more exotic pearl colors and types enter the marketplace, consumers are slack-jawed at the wide array of natural colorations turning up in these lustrous orbs. Ever wonder what causes the color to appear in marine gems? The answer will only add to your adoration of these sumptuous jewels of the sea.

With few exceptions, most all pearls available today are cultured. They are grown inside a variety of mollusks but they were cultivated by the implantation of some sort of irritant inside the bi-valve to start the process of growing the pearl.

PICK YOUR FAVORITE COLOR
If you haven’t noticed, today pearls are available in hues ranging from purple, black, green, blue, pink and grey besides the white and cream colors we’re used to seeing. What produces their colors depends on the type of oyster-host the pearl develops in. Other factors include the nacre which is the outer layer of pearly-covering over the nucleus itself. Finally, and this is crucial, the aquatic environment of the oyster itself plays a role in developing the eventual color displayed in pearls.

SPEAKING THE LANGUAGE OF PEARLS
Because the pearl shows countless iridescent tones, explaining color is not a simple process. The main color—or body color as it’s referred to, is the first impression the pearl gives. Next the pearl is often modified by an overtone which can be several different colors that present as you turn the pearl in the light.

INSPIRATION FOR THE ARTIST
Iridescence found in these gems is always captivating to the beholder, and often inspire the jewelry artist to create around a single pearl. Designer Paula Crevoshay is masterful at color combining. This is likely the result of her being first and foremost an expert painter who understands the juxtaposition of hues, shapes, and texture. In her dramatic pink pearl ring, she takes an analogous approach by accenting the rosy pearl with a lively
pink sapphire plus white diamonds. This use of similar colors on the color wheel adds a touch of drama and sophistication to the creation.

You’ll discover a painterly quality to all her original pieces so it’s worth taking a look at each one of her artistic jewels. It won’t take long before you understand you’re gazing at masterful works fit for the museum . . . because her work is actually in the Smithsonian and other prestigious locales. See Paula Crevoshay jewelry at
Provident Jewelry—you’ll be in for a treat.

DIANA JARRETT GG RMV

Contact Diana Jarrett at diana@dianajarrett.com and read color-n-ice.blogspot.com
LIFE IN THE FACET LANE     www.dianajarrett.com