The Keshi pearl

The creation of a pearl requires two components: the nucleus and the graft. The nucleus is spherical, typically a small bead of nacre. The graft is a part of the oyster's mantle, containing cells responsible for producing nacre.

However, if the oyster retains only the graft and rejects the nucleus, this graft produces layers of nacre, resulting in the formation of a keshi pearl! Keshis are thus nacreous concretions. The process is fascinating, and keshis are truly wonderful.

Keshis come in various colors, weights, sizes, qualities, and shapes. For this reason, these natural gems are highly valued for their variety and beauty. Keshi pearls are also very rare. They can form naturally in freshwater as well as in the sea.

Keshis are smaller than pearls because they do not contain a nucleus. These small gems are also rarer than pearls. Considered unique for a long time, keshi pearls cannot be classified in the same way as regular pearls due to their irregular shape. Their shape is often quirky because they lack a structure around which nacre can form naturally.

Although their value is not as high as that of pearls, keshis are considered lucky charms (often called "Tears of Heaven" or "Tears of the Gods") and are now prominent pieces in keshi pearl jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, earrings…). They are appreciated for their high luster, often exceeding that of regular pearls!

Unique pieces of exceptional beauty, keshis, like regular pearls, can be produced in a controlled environment through human intervention. Finding a keshi pearl in nature is very rare. With the development of pearl cultivation techniques, it is now easy to insert the nucleus into the mollusk and create conditions favorable to the formation of keshis.

Several pearl farmers produce keshis. Pearl farming involves cultivating, maintaining favorable conditions, and caring for pearl oysters to produce quality pearls according to demand. Keshi pearl farming requires experience and expertise, as oysters are very delicate.

In fact, 10% of oysters die after grafting, another 10% within the following three years, and only a third will reject the nucleus and nacre to form a keshi pearl. Only 1% yield perfect pearls! Pearl oyster farming is practiced worldwide. It is possible to obtain Tahitian keshi pearls or freshwater keshi pearls in any region, such as in a pearl farm in French Polynesia, Akoya farms in Japan, freshwater farms in China, or pearl farms in Australia, where millions of mollusks are cultivated.

Generally, to obtain cultured pearls, it takes between 18 months and 5 years. The process is lengthy. Keshi production in different pearl farms varies depending on certain factors. It is essential to consider the location of cultivation, the type of water (saltwater, freshwater, lakes...), as well as fertilization techniques.

The structure and general appearance of keshis are very similar to regular pearls. This is why it’s important to know the origin of your purchase and, if possible, to request a certificate of authenticity.

To distinguish between them, it may sometimes be necessary to examine the structure of the pearl using X-rays. X-rays can penetrate the structure to verify the presence of a nucleus or any traces left by the graft.

What could be more wonderful than wearing pearls to add a touch of elegance to your outfit? If your budget doesn’t allow for traditional pearls, consider keshis!

These baroque pearls are unique and stunning. They are also available at more reasonable prices. With an endless variety of shapes and colors, you’re sure to find an affordable keshi that suits your style!