Roseann says it best in her own words: “The cultivation of pearls requires the preservation of the ecosystem. The water must be pristine, the land around it must be undisturbed and the air clean. The slightest change in water temperature, salinity, pollution and current can kill the oysters. In fact, the cultivation of pearls is the only industry that requires man to preserve and protect the environment. It is also 100 percent sustainable. Our pearls are not only eco-friendly, they are a product of a partnership with the environment. … We do everything possible to lessen waste, reuse and recycle.”
It makes sense that she founded her business on Earth Day, 2008.
You can find many websites that offer invaluable information about pearl history and cultivation, and I have listed some of the most informative below along with some pertinent books on the subject. You can go to Amazon.com for books, but why not visit a local bookstore or library and paw through a few pages just for the joy of it. The books mentioned below are also very beautiful.
The Eco Opulence website only sells wholesale, but you can check out a few boutiques in Maryland and Virginia besides my own that currently carry her line.
*Gemological Institute of America, Graduate of Pearls
Books on Pearls
The Pearl Oyster, by Paul Southgate and John Lucas, Elsevier Science, 2008. This lavishly illustrated book is currently the ultimate reference written by leading experts and scientists, and comes recommended by Roseann. The book cover, with eerily submerged oysters, is dramatic.
Pearls: A Natural History, by Neil H. Landman, Paula Mikkelsen, Abrams, 2001. A true history book on pearls, this book also packs a wallop. It explores the history and cultivation of pearls throughout the world, and is beautifully illustrated with many photographs and sketches.
Tiffany Pearls, by John Loring, Design Director of Tiffany’s, Abrams, 2006. A 304-page history of Tiffany’s pearls with tons of gorgeous photographs, sketches and drawings, from historical to contemporary. Another gorgeous book by the venerable company, and written by their long-time design director.
Websites:
Pearl-Guide.com is a substantial website that offers information and history on all types of pearls. A great guide to start with in learning more.
Pearl-Education.com With the tagline "the Truth About Pearls," this is a site that offers a forum for people to ask questions, chat and post information about pearl cultivation in China, Thailand, India, etc.
The PBS NOVA website has a beautiful presentation and informative history on pearls:
Retail:
Belvedere Square 515 E Belvedere Ave
Baltimore, MD 21212
(410) 528 7296
2205 Mount Vernon Ave
Alexandria, VA 22301
(703) 549-0813
Tyson’s Corner Center
McLean, Virginia
(703) 734-9001
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