What is the difference between salt&freshwater pearls?
Pearls are popular gemstones originating in both freshwater and saltwater. Due to their distinct characteristics and differences in color and texture, freshwater pearls and saltwater pearls are easy to distinguish from one another.FormationSaltwater and freshwater pearls are formed when a particle of sand or some other irritant enters the lining of a shellfish. Over time, the shellfish secretes a smooth, white substance which deposits on the sand granule, coating it uniformly and eventually creating a pearl.Occurrence & ProductionSaltwater pearls are more of a natural phenomenon compared to freshwater pearls. Saltwater pearls are usually only found in nature, whereas freshwater pearls can be commercially produced in farms.ShapeA freshwater pearl is typically egg-shaped and a salt water pearl is completely round with a smooth texture.PreferenceBoth saltwater and freshwater pearls are sought after.
