Everything You Need To Know About Rice Pearls
With their delicate beauty and timeless elegance, rice pearls have become one of the most popular pearl varieties of the year. These petite pearls are ideal for creating lustrous strands that still exude organic charm, offering a contemporary alternative to classic round shapes. But what exactly are they, and where do they come from?
Below we’ll be exploring the origins and unique characteristics of rice pearls, so you can decide if this variety is right for you.
What Are Rice Pearls?
Rice pearls are defined by their small yet elongated shape that resembles a grain of rice. This petite pearl variety typically ranges from just 2-7mm in size, but it still boasts a beautiful luster that rivals that of larger pearls. Their oval silhouette is slightly imperfect, creating a charming organic feel that keeps admirers coming back for more.
While rice pearls are commonly associated with creamy white colors, they are naturally available in a wide spectrum of colors from soft pastels to deep blacks. This inherent versatility ensures there are perfect rice pearls for every style and occasion.
Rice Pearl Origins
Rice pearls are a variety of freshwater pearls that are mostly prevalent in Asia. The pearls are derived from mussels rather than oysters, and are typically cultivated in China, Japan, and the Philippines, but some can be found in the United States.
These petite pearls first originated around the 1970s, when Chinese pearl farmers began focusing on the cultivation of freshwater pearls. Decades of experimentation with mussel species and proper lake selection led to the creation of the most coveted rice pearls in the world, featuring the same stunning qualities of larger oval pearls in a more compact package. Today, the highest quality rice pearls can be traced back to Asia’s most pristine lakes.
Cultivation and Harvesting
Rice pearls are cultivated with meticulous care, following a delicate and time-consuming process. Freshwater mussels are carefully nurtured in controlled environments and clean water, where the pearls grow over the course of several years. Skilled specialists oversee the cultivation process, ensuring each pearl meets the highest standards of quality.
Unlike some other pearls that undergo treatments to achieve specific colors, rice pearls are celebrated for their natural hues. Aside from a gentle cleaning, they don’t require much treatment to enhance their natural beauty.
At Oceano Pearls, we take pride in sourcing only the finest rice pearls from ethical and sustainable farms from the Philippines. Our commitment to quality ensures that all of our rice pearls meet the highest environmental, social, and aesthetic standards.
Rice Pearls in Jewelry
Rice pearls are the embodiment of timeless elegance. Their small shape works perfectly for chains and bracelets to create an elevated take on beaded bohemian styles, or to act as a contemporary version of classic strands of pearls.
Whether worn alone or mixed with other designs, rice pearls add a touch of refined beauty to any outfit. Their versatility makes them suitable for both casual and formal occasions, ensuring that they remain cherished accessories in your collection for years to come.
Discover the distinctive beauty of rice pearls today and elevate your jewelry collection with our new Surinam range.
