BAIGAL Pearl Halo Necklace

BAIGAL celebrates the beauty and elegance of pearls, a gemstone that has been cherished throughout history for its captivating allure. Whether glistening in the soft glow of candlelight or shimmering in daylight, pearls possess a unique charm that transcends time and trends. We use both cultured and freshwater pearls in our jewelry creations, each carefully selected for its luster and quality, bringing sophistication and grace to every piece.

Pearls are unlike any other gemstone, as they are formed organically within living mollusks, such as oysters and mussels. When an irritant, such as a grain of sand or a small particle, becomes trapped inside the mollusk’s shell, the animal coats it with layers of a substance called nacre. Over time, these layers build up, forming the beautiful, lustrous gem we know as a pearl. There are two main types of pearls used in modern jewelry: cultured pearls and freshwater pearls. Cultured pearls are produced in both saltwater and freshwater environments, where the process is carefully managed by skilled pearl farmers. Freshwater pearls, often smaller and more varied in shape, are cultivated in rivers and lakes, primarily in China.

The allure of pearls dates back thousands of years, making them one of the oldest known gemstones. In ancient civilizations, pearls were seen as symbols of wealth, purity, and status. Cleopatra famously dissolved a pearl in vinegar to prove her wealth to Marc Antony, and in ancient Rome, pearls were considered the ultimate symbol of prestige, worn only by the elite. Throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, pearls continued to be coveted by royalty and the nobility, adorning crowns, necklaces, and clothing. They became synonymous with refinement and class, earning the moniker “the Queen of Gems.” This historical association with royalty and elegance still holds true today, as pearls continue to be a timeless choice for those seeking timeless luxury.

One of the fascinating aspects of pearls is that they are the only gemstone created by a living creature. While natural pearls are incredibly rare and often unaffordable, the cultured pearl industry, pioneered by Mikimoto in the late 19th century, revolutionized the availability of pearls, making them more accessible without sacrificing beauty. Pearls also come in a wide array of colors, from classic white and ivory to exotic shades like black, pink, and gold, depending on the mollusk species and water conditions.

BAIGAL carefully selects pearls that reflect our commitment to quality and artistry. Whether in the form of delicate earrings, elegant necklaces, or statement rings, our pearl creations are designed to enhance the natural beauty of the wearer. We embrace both cultured and freshwater pearls, each offering its own unique characteristics—cultured pearls for their classic, round perfection and freshwater pearls for their organic, irregular shapes that add a touch of natural beauty to modern designs.

Caring for pearls requires special attention to ensure their lasting beauty. Pearls are more delicate than many other gemstones, and with the right care, they will retain their radiance for years to come. Avoid exposing pearls to harsh chemicals, such as perfume, hairspray, or cosmetics, as these can damage their delicate surface. After wearing your pearls, it is best to gently wipe them with a soft, damp cloth to remove any oils or residues that may accumulate. Excessive moisture can weaken the silk thread that strings pearl necklaces, so avoid submerging them in water or wearing them while swimming or showering. To protect your pearls from scratches, store them in a soft pouch or its BAIGAL jewelry box, keeping them separate from other jewelry.

The black spinel is a gemstone that exudes a bold and captivating presence. Known for its deep, intense black color and brilliant luster, black spinel is both a powerful statement stone and a symbol of elegance. In our jewelry creations, black spinel is carefully chosen for its mesmerizing beauty, adding a touch of mystery and sophistication to each piece.

Unlike more well-known gemstones like diamonds or sapphires, spinel has historically flown under the radar, though it is equally stunning. Spinel forms naturally in a range of colors, from red to blue, but the black variety has gained attention for its dramatic, polished finish that rivals even the best black diamonds. Black spinel’s striking appearance comes from its unique crystal structure, which gives it an impressive brilliance when cut and polished.

With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, spinel is one of the toughest gemstones, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear. Its resistance to scratches and chipping means that black spinel retains its stunning look for a long time period of time. Unlike black diamonds, which can sometimes have visible inclusions or require treatments to enhance their color, black spinel is naturally perfect and doesn’t require enhancement, giving it a pure, velvety appearance.

Historically, spinel has been mistaken for other gemstones, most notably in the British Crown Jewels, where the famous "Black Prince’s Ruby" is actually a large red spinel. Black spinel, however, has recently begun to shine in its own right, favored by modern jewelry designers for its sophisticated edge. In BAIGAL’s designs, black spinel is used to create pieces that offer a unique alternative to traditional black stones, pairing its deep hue with sleek, contemporary settings that highlight its natural brilliance.

Caring for black spinel is simple, due to its natural durability. However, like all gemstones, it is important to clean and store it properly to maintain its shine. To clean black spinel, use warm, soapy water and a soft brush to gently remove any dirt or oils that may accumulate from wear. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone’s surface. When not being worn, store your black spinel jewelry in a soft pouch or their original BAIGAL jewelry box to prevent it from coming into contact with other harder gemstones, which could cause scratches.