How do I care for these pearls?

Pearls are organic gems that require gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and warm water. Avoid chemical cleaners, ultrasonic baths, and prolonged exposure to cosmetics or perfumes. Store them separately from harder gemstones to prevent surface scratching on the delicate nacre.

Were all these pieces made in the nineteenth century?

While the design styles originate from the Victorian period, production dates span into the Edwardian era and later twentieth-century revivals. Hallmarks and material testing help determine the exact decade of manufacture. Items from the archive also include nineteenth-century rosewood boxes inlaid with mother-of-pearl.

What is a seed pearl starburst?

A starburst design arranges tiny seed pearls in radiating points from a central stone or gold dot. This motif appears frequently on brooches and earrings from the era. The configuration creates a bright, textured surface that mimics the sparkle of cut diamonds.

How can I tell natural pearls from cultured ones?

Most antique pieces utilise natural pearls or early seed pearls gathered before modern culturing techniques became widespread. Examining the drill holes and surface lustre under magnification reveals the natural formation layers. Gemmological testing provides definitive confirmation of pearl origin for significant pieces.