Freshwater pearl-producing mussels can accept up to 50 implants at a time. They typically require 2-6 years to grow, and the finished pearl typically ranges in size from 4mm to 11mm. Larger freshwater pearls do exist, although their bigger size will likely be reflected in a bigger price tag. Approximately 60% of a typical freshwater pearl crop is made up of button pearls (flat on one side) or oval pearls. Only about 2% of the harvest is round, according to the latest information from the Gemological Institute of America. Baroque (no symmetry) and semi-baroque pearls typically make up the remainder of the crop. As with Tahitians and other pearl types, in a skilled designer's hands, these unique pearls can be turned into extremely beautiful jewelry.

Ever since the ancient Egyptians first started creating jewelry, pearls have become one of the highest regarded gemstones. Even today pearls still hold their value due to the rarity of ¡°mother nature¡�creating this form of jewelry.

If, when you picture freshwater pearls, lumpy linen-colored rice shapes come to mind, it's time to update your thinking. Today's freshwater pearls have come a long way from their humble beginnings, and the best specimens now rival the beauty of their saltwater cousins¡ªthe akoya pearl, the Tahitian pearl and the South Sea pearl.

Pearl jewelry is the jewelry made of natural materials - Cultured freshwater pearls,akoya pearls,south sea pearls, and Tahitian pearls.