The term “Baroque” comes from the Portuguese word “baroqu”, which means “irregular pearl”. All irregular pearls with a nucleus are collectively called Baroque. Baroque pearls originated after the European Renaissance in the 17th century. The 17th – 18th centuries at that time was the era of Baroque art, and the name of Baroque pearls also originated from this. Baroque pearls refer to pearls with irregular shapes. Compared with the round pearls pursued by traditional aesthetics, the shapes of Baroque pearls are more unique and gorgeous, and are more suitable for various unique jewelry designs.
1️⃣【The Formation of Baroque Pearls】 The formation process of Baroque pearls is slightly different from that of traditional round pearls. When a foreign object enters the interior of the shell of a shellfish, the shellfish will secrete nacre to wrap and protect the foreign object. Due to various factors during the formation process, such as changes in growth rate and the position of the foreign object, the pearl takes on an irregular shape during the formation process. Baroque pearls are irregular pearls formed due to some unexpected changes during the growth of pearls. All irregular pearls with a nucleus are collectively called Baroque. ⚠️Note: Baroque describes the shape, so there are Baroque pearls in every category of pearls.
2️⃣【The Relationship between Baroque Pearls and the European Renaissance】 The Baroque art style originated in Rome and became widely popular around the 17th century. The Baroque style is based on the spirit of romanticism, pursuing passionate, unrestrained, exaggerated, and romantic artistic expressions, and abandoning the dogma, restraint, and solemnity of traditional classicism. ~ During the period when the Baroque style was prevalent, Baroque pearls gradually became a must – have fashion item for the royal family and nobles. The jewelry works of this period not only had the luxurious atmosphere of the royal family and the religious color, but also had the characteristics of romance and exaggeration, becoming the most timeless and classic jewelry style.
3️⃣【The Characteristics and Selection of Baroque Pearls】
- Shape: Baroque pearls usually have irregular, non – round shapes, such as oval, teardrop, flat, bell – shaped, etc.
- 大小: The size range of Baroque pearls is very wide, ranging from a few millimeters to a few inches. Large – sized Baroque pearls are very rare in the market. Choose an appropriate size according to personal preferences and wearing occasions.
- Color and Luster: The colors and lusters of Baroque pearls are diverse, ranging from white, cream, pink, brown, black to gold. The luster of Baroque pearls can range from a soft sheen to a strong reflected light, creating a special appearance due to the unique shape of the pearl. The brighter the luster, the better the quality of the pearl.
- Flaws: The surface of Baroque pearls usually has flaws, such as small pits, small bumps, or cracks. They also endow Baroque pearls with a unique charm.