Blue Gold Black Pearls

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Title: Blue Gold Black Pearls
Medium: Digital Photography
Photographer: Aaron J. Greenblatt
Camera Type: Panasonic DMC-LZ7 Lumix 7.2 MP
Editing: Edited in PhotoShop 7.0 for color accuracy, size, and to apply copyright and border.

Location: Photograph taken at the 2008 Spring Bead Bonanza Show in Southfield, Michigan.

Description: These freshwater pearls were for sale at the show. Their colors were probably achieved by dying the pearls using chemicals. I like the striking contrast between the three colors shown here. Sometimes it's hard for me to take pictures of pearls because of the way they scatter the light - which can lead to an almost fuzzy appearance. This is especially true for me when photographing pearls which have bright colors and are under strong light conditions. Unfortunately, because this image was taken at a show, I wasn't able to adjust the lighting.

About Pearl Color Enhancement: Most pearls – including cultured saltwater, freshwater and South Sea – are bleached to lighten uneven dark areas that may appear under the nacre. This is permanent, provides a more uniform appearance and prepares the pearl for steps that can enhance the color. Because pearls are porous, they often absorb human oils, makeup and perfume, which can stain. In fact, pearls are soft, porous and accepting to all contact with natural and chemical substances, such as dyes. Pearl treaters take advantage of this porosity to achieve finer, more uniform colors with natural extracts and inorganic and/or chemical dyes.

Information Source: [link] (professionaljeweler)

Legal: Copyright © Aaron J. Greenblatt. All rights reserved. Commercial use prohibited. This image and commentary may not be used for any reason without expressed written consent.


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