Freshwater pearls are pearls grown in freshwater mussels in lakes, rivers and ponds. Almost all freshwater pearls today are cultured, which means a farmer starts the process and the mussel builds the pearl layer by layer. Each one has its own shape, tone and lustre.
At DANSK Copenhagen, most of our pearls are freshwater pearls, set on waterproof 316L stainless steel.
How are freshwater pearls formed?
A tiny fragment of tissue is placed inside a mussel. The mussel coats it with nacre, the same shiny material that lines its shell. Over one to several years, the layers build up into a pearl.
Because freshwater pearls are made almost entirely of nacre, they have a soft, natural glow.
What shapes do freshwater pearls come in?
- Round and near-round: the classic look, and the rarest.
- Oval and button: slightly flattened, easy to wear as studs or drops.
- Baroque: irregular and organic, with a modern, characterful look.
Freshwater vs saltwater pearls
| Freshwater pearls | Saltwater pearls | |
|---|---|---|
| Grown in | Freshwater mussels | Saltwater oysters |
| Types | Freshwater | Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian |
| Shapes | Wide variety, often organic | Mostly round |
| Colours | White, cream, pink, peach | White, gold, grey, black |
| Price | Accessible | Higher |
Read more on our page about freshwater or cultured pearls.
Are freshwater pearls real pearls?
Yes. Cultured freshwater pearls are real pearls grown by a living mussel. "Cultured" only means that people started the process; the pearl itself forms naturally.
How to wear freshwater pearls
Freshwater pearls are no longer just for special occasions. Wear a pearl stud with a sweatshirt, layer a pearl necklace with a plain chain or add a pearl drop to an ear stack.
Find more ideas in how to wear pearl jewellery, or browse our jewellery with freshwater pearls: earrings, necklaces and bracelets.
How do you care for freshwater pearls?
Our pearl jewellery is waterproof, so you can keep it on in the shower. Pearls are softer than steel, so put them on after perfume and lotion, pat them dry after water and store them apart from harder jewellery.
Frequently asked questions
What are freshwater pearls?
Freshwater pearls are real pearls grown in freshwater mussels. Almost all are cultured, and each one has its own shape and lustre.
Are freshwater pearls valuable?
They are real pearls but more accessible than saltwater pearls, because mussels can grow several pearls at a time.
Can freshwater pearls get wet?
Yes, when they are set on waterproof steel. Pat them dry afterwards to keep their glow.
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