These grey button pearl earrings are striking, classic and beautiful. They are impressive earrings, yet because of their even shape, are quite classic. The colour is similar to Tahitian pearls, which grow naturally in dark shades, although these have been dyed.
The earrings are made with freshwater pearls which measure approximately 11mm x 11mm. The posts are sterling silver.
All earrings also come with rubber safety backs (pictured), which prop up large studs on the earlobe better than butterfly backs.
It can be tricky to buy studs online. I would be glad to work with you to find something you like -- in size, colour, and shape, but also in overall feel. So please ask! I have a number of studs that aren't listed, and I'm happy to send you as many photos as it takes to ensure you love them.
To keep your pearls looking their best, remember they should be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off. Avoid getting perfume, hairspray, lotion, or any other chemical on them, and wipe them off right away if you do. Keep them out of water, where hair products, chlorine, or salt water could dull or discolour them.
A general word on pearls: Your grandmother's classic pearls might be Akoya, grown in salt water off the coast of Japan. Tahitian pearls, also grown in salt water, are the only ones to naturally develop in dark, dramatic shades. Last on the list are South Sea pearls, which are considered to be the most lustrous and beautiful, and are certainly most expensive. These days, almost no pearl on the market has been found in an oyster by a diver. If you do find one for sale, it will probably cost anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 or more.
Pearls that have not been grown, or farmed, are simulated. You can tell the difference between them by touching the pearl to the top of your bottom teeth. If it feels gritty, it is natural. If it feels like plastic or glass, it is.
Freshwater pearls are the most affordable natural pearl, and most are grown in China. Baroque is the term used to describe any pearl of any variety that is not round. And here at Daily Pearls, we love them wild and wonderful.