Brief Background on Cultured Pearls

In China today, over 95% of the fresh water cultured pearls are harvested from a region that is part of Jianshu Province. The location is about an hour train ride from Hangzhou, the resort town famous for the scenic XiHu (West Lake.)

There is a compelling reason why pearls are grown in this location. The legend goes that during the period of the Three Kingdoms (169 A.D. - 280 A.D.), the Empress Xi Shi went for a bath in the crystal clear Shanxihu (Foothill Lake). Her immense beauty impressed all the watery creatures and thus the best way to respond to her presence was throught the magnificent pearls.

Back to modern times... 1985 June, Chinese government recognized the commercial value of the cultured pearls. With the help from Japan, this industry was starting to take shape. Twenty (20) metric tons of pearls were produced the very next year on a 80 acres pond. The quality and variety were poor and limited. However, with newer technology and lack of pollution, the pearls are matching the world standard of grades.

As of 2000, six hundred and fifty metric tons were produced in this region. Most of the pearls are for local and regional consumption. However, with the quality improvement and choice of shapes and color, it won't be long before these pearls are marketed worldwide.

Pearls of this quality take two and half years for maturity (Three Summers and Two Winters), hence I name my pearls "Five Seasons". Just a reminder that these are the products of time and patience.