Cultured Freshwater Pearls

There's been a revolution and it's called the cultured Freshwater Pearl.

In 1914, pearl farmers began growing cultured freshwater pearls using the pearl mussels native to Lake Biwa. This lake, the largest and most ancient in Japan, lies near the city of Kyoto. For over half a century, pearls from this lake enjoyed status as the most beautiful in the world.  Lake Biwa was once world renowned for producing high-quality freshwater pearls produced by the Hyriopsis schlegelii, (Biwa pearl mussel) mussel. The extensive and successful use of the Biwa Pearl Mussel is reflected in the name Biwa pearls, a phrase which was at one time nearly synonymous with freshwater pearls in general. Since the time of peak production in 1971, when Biwa pearl farmers produced six tons of cultured pearls, pollution has caused the virtual extinction of the industry. Japanese pearl farmers recently cultured a hybrid pearl mussel – a cross between Biwa Pearl Mussels and a closely related species from China, Hyriopsis cumingi, in Lake Kasumigaura. This industry has also nearly ceased production, due to pollution.

Japanese pearl producers also invested in producing cultured pearls with freshwater mussels in the region of Shanghai, China. China has since become the world's largest producer of freshwater pearls, producing more than 1,500 metric tons per year.

Freshwater pearls are currently a major fashion craze.  Pearls that have the quality and size to wear alone or with their saltwater cousins. Pearls that express the spirit of Today.  Mix them with Akoyas, layer them with Tahitian and South Seas.  Play with different lengths, colors, shapes and sizes. That's what fashion is all about now.

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