Choosing Pearl Color & Overtone

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(Free-Press-Release.com) January 10, 2009 -- it is helpful to have a general understanding of the elements that constitute pearl color before making a decision to purchase.

In general terms, pearl color refers to the following three elements:

Body Color: The body color is the primary color of the pearl. Depending on the type of pearl (Akoya, Freshwater, Tahitian etc.), the body color of pearls could range from white to black with many variations in between.

Overtone Color: Overtones are a subtle, secondary hue that can be seen in the luster of the pearl. They are sort of an accent to the body color of the pearl and, unless very strong, are best seen when the pearls are compared to a solid white background.

The most popular overtone color for Akoya Saltwater pearls is rosé, which complements the widest range of skin tones. Other overtones include ivory, silver, and green on white pearls and emearld, blue and others on black pearls.

Orient: A very rare color component of some types of pearls normally found on baroque or irregular shapped pearl surfaces, orient color will appear as an iridescent or rainbow-like coloring that will reflect upon the surface of the pearl as light shimmers across the surface.