What are Mallorca pearls – are they real?

What are Mallorca pearls

The Mallorca variety, created in a factory using mother-of-pearl, is an organic pearl. It acts as an intermediate link between natural (extracted from the sea or grown on farms) and artificial gemstones, having absorbed the best from both types.

Pearls from the Spanish jewelry brand Majorica are distinguished by their ideal shape, thick layer of high-quality mother-of-pearl, and increased strength. The appearance of stains, scratches, and other defects during normal use is excluded.

Research by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has confirmed that the properties of Majorica pearls are identical to high-quality natural sea minerals.

WHAT MAGIC AND ASTROLOGISTS SAY

Natural pearls have long been considered a symbol of youth, beauty and health. Darkened stones warned their wearer about health problems. The pearl was also a talisman for family and marital relationships.

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Many jewelry connoisseurs are sure: stones from Mallorca, although considered artificial, have all the properties of natural pearls.

• Esotericists and astrologists attribute pearls to the water element. Therefore, jewelry with mother-of-pearl beads is suitable for signs under the protection of water: Pisces, Scorpios and Cancers. Spanish pearls will protect the owner from evil people and thoughts, and will help you make the right decision.
• Fire signs (Aries, Leo and Sagittarius) are better off wearing pearls set in gold. This is because these signs are too impulsive, and the noble mineral may not withstand their temperament.
• Earth signs (Virgo, Capricorn and Taurus) should not wear pearls every day - this can cause discord in the family and undermine health. It is better to wear iridescent jewelry only for a special event. The same recommendation is relevant for air signs: Aquarius, Libra and Gemini.

Manufacturing technology

Organic Majorica pearls (or “Majorica”, we call them “Majorca”) are impeccable in color, rainbow overtones, and texture. The technology imitates the processes occurring in a natural pearl:

1. The glass or porcelain core base is fixed on holders.
2. Immersed in essence, that is, a mixture of pearl powder, fish scales and oil. If the bead is colored, a natural pigment is added.
3. After drying, the process is repeated 25–40 times. The number of layers determines how much a particular pearl subsequently costs.
4. Each layer is carefully polished.
5. After the final immersion, pure mother-of-pearl is applied, a protective coating is applied, and the pearl is irradiated with ultraviolet light.

Control is carried out according to 25 gradations - color, strength, shine, and other properties of the stone for each layer.

A bead is created in ten to thirty days.

Technology for producing mother-of-pearl beads

Preparing the Kernel

The process of creating a Majorica brand pearl under human control completely repeats all the stages of stone formation in nature. The company keeps the details of production secret. The general public knows only the main points.

The cores are prepared from small particles of porcelain; it is permissible to use glass. They are then secured using special holders and placed in the solution. Its exact composition is the main secret of production. However, it definitely includes natural pearl powder.

This basic additive is prepared either from the pearls themselves or from the nacre on shellfish shells. More details about it are described in the article “Nacre stone: properties and who is suitable for it.”

Applying layers

For bonding, the composition uses fish scales, which are crushed to a dusty state. Oil is also poured into the mixture. Having placed the kernels there, leave them for about 40 minutes. Then they are removed and dried using ultraviolet rays. The first layer of mother-of-pearl is ready, but this is not enough for a high-quality thick coating.

Therefore, the process is repeated as many times as necessary to obtain a stone of the desired size. The number of layers of mother-of-pearl applied varies. If you need to make a large pearl, then there can be 30 of them. For a smaller bead, 20 approaches are enough.

Shape and color, according to technical specifications

Sanding is carried out between the application of pearlescent layers. This is done to give the perfect shape. And this is one of the hallmarks of Mallorcan pearls. Usually they create absolutely round beads, but there are possibilities for creating beads in the form of ellipses or “drops”.

It all depends on the specific technical task. The same goes for color. To obtain majorica pearls of the desired shade, the desired pigment from a natural substance is added to the solution for immersing the core.

The jewelry obtained in this way contains aragonite, like real natural stones, as well as conchiolin.

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any precious gem, organic has pros and cons.

pros

The advantages compared to natural mineral are significant.

Wear resistance

The coating is not afraid of aggressive factors such as cosmetics, sun, sea water, sweat, perfumes. Wearing a major stone does not affect visual attractiveness or physical qualities. Its “life” is much longer than natural.

Maintaining original appearance

Natural specimens contain water and conchiolin. Water evaporates over time, and conchiolin, reaching the surface of the pearls, decomposes. As a result, natural pearls become dull and crack. Therefore, it is recommended to periodically “bathe” them or wear them more often so that they are saturated with moisture.

Mallorca pearls are free from this drawback. The manufacturing technology provides for the presence of water only in the mother-of-pearl made from fish scales, so that the coating is viscous and shiny. The processing process removes conchiolin so the beads do not fade or crack.

Variety of colors

If in the seas the tone of pearls is determined by the composition of the water and the depth of the shell, then the artificial Mallorca variety receives its colors from natural dyes. For lilac-lilac colors, manganese is added to mother-of-pearl, for red colors - iron, green tints are created by copper. The range of colors is from white to black, with many tones for each base color. For natural minerals this indicator is poorer.

Impeccable form

Only Majorica beads can be large and at the same time ideal in shape. Natural river material does not happen like this; sea material is present at auctions and costs exorbitantly.

In this variety you will not find “baroque” pearls (or baroque pearls), that is, irregularly shaped specimens. Although the company’s craftsmen will create such delights if necessary.

Ease

Jewelry from Mallorca is lighter than that made from natural stone. This is especially appreciated by ladies who prefer massive earrings or long beads.

Minuses

There are very few of them:

1. Fragility of the surface layer. Natural pearls are expensive due to their monolithic structure. The base in products from Mallorca is not so firmly bonded to mother-of-pearl, so the coating can chip when hit, and the thin mother-of-pearl layer gradually wears off.
2. Lack of healing and magical qualities.

They are compensated by easy care. Unlike natural pearls, which are capricious in everyday use, this variety does not require much trouble.

WE BUY SMARTLY

Noble pearl beads are a symbol of style, breed, completeness and elegance. But only if high-quality pearls were used in the process of creating the jewelry. For example, Mallorca. How to distinguish the products of a Spanish jewelry house from ordinary beads masquerading as pearls?

Visual features and price

The originality of Majorica pearls can be determined by the following characteristics:

• PEARL TIDE. White Mallorcas shimmer with all the colors of the rainbow when the sun's rays hit them. The more intense the radiance emanating from them, the more valuable the products.
• SHINE. The surface shines, reminiscent of the sheen of satin fabric.
• TEXTURE. This characteristic takes into account the diameter, shape, thickness and quality of mother of pearl. Ideally, each pearl should resemble a sphere (ball). Uneven shape, scratches, cuts, discolored spots reduce the quality and, accordingly, the price of pearls. Mallorca products combine all the described properties.
• COLOR. Colors range from pearlescent white to sophisticated black.
• STRENGTH. Unlike capricious natural pearls, Mallorca is not afraid of heat, cold, as well as beads of sweat, perfume, cosmetics, etc.

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Jewelry with pearls Mallorca

Externally, pearls are indistinguishable from natural ones. It does not require any processing, so the intervention of jewelers is limited to creating a durable, beautiful frame.

The best setting for a Mallorca pearl is 925 silver or gold. But the stone can deteriorate due to prolonged contact with metals, so galvanic rhodium coating is applied to the frame of the product.

Given Mallorca's vulnerability to chipping and abrasion, Spanish jewelers have created unique mounts that cover and protect pearls.

Price

Mallorca pearls are not natural pearls, but they are not plastic either. Therefore, its cost is higher than its artificial counterpart, but tens of times inferior to a natural marine specimen of equal quality and parameters.

So, the price of a necklace 45 cm long with beads 6 - 8 mm is 11-13 thousand rubles. For rings or earrings they will ask five to six thousand rubles.

History of the discovery and purpose of the experiment

Natural stone has always been characterized by a high cost due to the difficulties of cultivation and extraction. This once prompted a promising researcher to come up with the idea of ​​simplifying and improving this process.

A new method of producing pearls was invented in 1890 by the German inventor Eduard Hugo Hesch, who emigrated to Paris. He spent about 50 years perfecting the technology. In 1951, he patented it, after which Majorica was founded. Later he moved to the island of the same name - Mallorca, where the company is now located.

To watch a video blog from the Majorika store-museum:

Magic properties

Only natural stones have magical and healing properties, no one argues with that. It is not surprising that Mallorca, combining artificial production with natural materials in its composition, has provoked splits and disputes in the esoteric community.

Opponents insist that the origin of the pebble - in the laboratory for just a month, and even with the use of technology - excludes magical properties. This requires years and the native sea element.

Defenders point to the conclusion of the highest gemological authority, the GIA, which recognized the identical physical qualities of the stone to its natural analogues.

What follows from this? Anyone can wear it, regardless of their zodiac sign.

Contemplating and wearing it improves the mood of the hostess, increases self-esteem, and puts her in a philosophical mood. What is not a magical or healing effect?

Alcohol from Mallorca

Not a long list of tourist tips on what kind of alcohol to bring from Mallorca.

Wine

The island's shops offer a wide selection of wines. They are made from apricots, oranges, apples with the addition of almonds. The main feature of the wines is the long aftertaste. Tourists recommend trying Binigrau, Randemar, Novel Rosado.

Liquor

Mallorcan liqueurs are made from almonds and herbs and infused with carob. Drinks differ not only in taste, but also in beneficial properties. Mallorca's most popular liqueur is Palo. It is prepared with the addition of ginseng.

What do you prefer, wine or liqueur?

WineLiquor

Rum

Lovers of strong drinks will be pleased with the rum.

Manufacturers prepare 4 types of Tobacco:

1. Gold – with a bitter-sweet taste.
2. Silver Premium is a sweet drink with coconut aroma.
3. Black is a bittersweet rum with a coconut-woody aroma.
4. Spiced – a spicy drink with pepper, cinnamon and anise.

Travel tips say that rum as a gift is a good choice.
Tourists recommend purchasing Tobacco Miel Ron or Tobacco Caramel Ron.

How to care for Mallorca

This variety is quite durable, the care rules are not burdensome, but mother of pearl requires delicate handling.

1. It is better to store jewelry in an individual bag or separately in a box so that harder stones do not scratch it.
2. For cleaning, no abrasives or household chemicals are used, which will irrevocably destroy the shine of the pearls or destroy the mother-of-pearl layer.
3. Dirt is removed with warm soapy water and rinsed under running water. Dry naturally on a soft cloth.
4. Do not test it with hot water or the scorching sun, cosmetics or perfumes.

Jewelry brought from Mallorca is the best reminder of visiting an exotic island. Moreover, this pleasure will cost half as much as at home.

Pearls of this variety are constantly at the peak of popularity. Although the exact manufacturing technology is a trade secret, they are trying to make it not only in Spain. Only a specialist can distinguish Mallorca by eye, so when buying jewelry, inquire about the presence of a quality certificate.

Edible gifts

Mallorcan delicacies are the best gift for gourmets. Let's figure out what to bring from Mallorca in terms of food.

Sobrasada

The main delicacy of Mallorca is considered to be pork sausage sobrassada. Its name has Sicilian roots and is translated as “shredded.” The recipe for preparing the delicacy was brought to the Balearics by sailors.

Mallorcans now consider sausage a national product. The meat of black pigs is used to make sobrasada. It is ground into a pate. Pepper and salt are added to the minced meat, after which the natural casing is filled with it. The sausage is dried in special rooms.

The peculiarity of sausages lies in the unusual taste, which is determined by the diet of pigs. The animals are fed fruits from fig and carob trees, as well as acorns. Due to the consumption of figs by pigs, their meat becomes sweet in taste, for which it is valued by gourmets.

Cheeses

Spanish cheeses are loved far beyond the country's borders. All regions of Spain produce their own varieties that have a special aroma and taste. Llucmajor cheese is made in Mallorca, which has been regularly supplied to the capital since 1345.

It quickly gained popularity, becoming the best-selling. Mallorcan cheeses are made from goat, sheep and cow's milk.

Farmer's market cheese.

Expert opinion

Marina

I have been living in Spain for 7 years.

Our tourists are more familiar with products made from cow's milk, which have a delicate taste. Thistle and rennet are used to make sheep's cheeses.

The most popular varieties:

• Grimalt;

• Burguera;

• Mahon.

Mahon cheese is made on the island of Menorca, but it is also sold in Mallorca. During the aging process, it is coated with paprika and olive oil, which turns it golden.

The cheese is both salty and spicy. This combination is due to the climatic conditions of Menorca: due to the sea winds, the plants in the local pastures are covered with a layer of salt. Cows eat it along with grass, so the milk and products made from it have a salty taste.

Do you like cheese?

Of course not really

Jamon

Jamon is considered one of the most popular delicacies in Spain, including Mallorca. Pork is used to make dry-cured ham on the island.

Dried apricots

Mediterranean apricots, dried under the bright sun, turn out sweet and retain all their vitamins. Dried fruits tolerate transportation well.

Ensaimada

The traditional delicacy has been prepared since the times when the island was under the rule of the Arabs. Ensaimada is a bun rolled into the shape of a snail. According to the original recipe, it is prepared from airy dough without filler, sprinkled with powder on top. But the inhabitants of the island bake delicacies with honey, chocolate, pumpkin jam or marmalade.

Fig bread

This unusual bread is made from almonds and figs, adding cloves, cinnamon and anise. The peculiarity of the delicacy is that it does not need to be baked. All products are mixed and then pressed, giving the product a round shape. Bread is sold in cardboard boxes. It has a spicy taste. It is convenient to take such a gift home because it does not spoil for a long time.

Almond

Mallorcan almonds are considered one of the best in the world. Local fruits are distinguished by their high oil content and sweetness.

They are used to make desserts. As a gift you can buy:

• marzipan;

• macaroons;

• almond sponge cake.

Olive oil

Mallorca is famous for its olive plantations. Favorable climatic conditions contribute to the fact that local trees are long-lived. Only high-quality oil with a pleasant taste and aroma is produced from their ripe fruits. In stores you can purchase the product in original bottles and give it to friends or family as a gift.

Olive oil biscuits

Even 150 years ago, sailors took biscuits on their voyages instead of bread.

Products with a piquant taste are also loved by vacationers.

Modern biscuits are produced by the Kelitas brand, located on the outskirts of Inca.

Recommendations before shopping

Spanish laws restrict the export of some national products.

In limited quantities you can export:

• cigarettes – up to 800 pcs.;
• strong alcohol – up to 10 l;
• wine – up to 90 l.

Without special permission you cannot export:

• antiques;
• artistic values;
• new cars.

Personal goods and food can be transported without restrictions. Tourists claim that it is much more interesting to buy souvenirs at the market - this allows you to feel the local flavor.

Assortment of jewelry

Pearl jewelry is popular not only among mature women. Young girls also love them. In our store you can purchase jewelry for every taste, for every day and for special occasions:

1. A wedding or cream evening dress will look great with beads, necklaces and stud earrings.
2. For lovers of casual style, strands of white or gray pearls are suitable. You can purchase a strip of pearls or an original piece of jewelry.
3. Bracelets and earrings made of pearls in a unique design will suit the youth style.

Jewelry has no age restrictions. Thanks to our store you can experiment and try a variety of combinations. Each product of the brand is one of a kind. Experienced craftsmen work with high-quality materials and elements that are produced in Italy under the strict supervision of specialists. Jewelry is made from hypoallergenic alloys with various coatings.

The Raganella Princess brand offers jewelry at attractive prices. The store has a large assortment of jewelry with pearls that will delight even the most fastidious customers. Our store differs from others in the presence of handmade products in classic and modern designs.

The products are suitable for customers of all ages, and it is very easy to become the owner of pearl jewelry, as there is delivery throughout Russia. So that you don’t have to search for a long time, the products are divided into categories: necklaces, bracelets, earrings. There are delicate products with large and medium beads. All prices are reasonable and correspond to the quality of the products offered. You can buy jewelry made of noble pearls for yourself or as a gift to your loved ones thanks to the “Raganella Princess” trademark.

Types of pearls by shape

Shape is one of the main characteristics of pearls, on which its value depends.

Pearls are:

• spherical, that is, having the shape of an even ball. If they are rolled down an inclined surface, their trajectory will be straight;
• hemispherical, that is, having the shape of a not quite even ball. When rolling down an inclined surface, they deviate to the side;
• forms of rice. This is the name given to symmetrical oval specimens;
• drop-shaped, that is, at one end much wider than at the other;
• blisters, that is, convex on one side, flat and often without a pearlescent layer on the other;
• flat, they are called buttons or buttons;
• baroque - pearls of irregular shape, including “paragons” and “monsters” (that is, similar in outline to figures of people, animals and birds);
• semi-baroque - spherical pearls with pronounced surface irregularities (grooves, bulges).

Spherical pearls are considered the most valuable, but sometimes teardrop-shaped ones, which have a very regular shape, are valued even higher than them.

If we talk about fashion trends, today baroque pearls are very popular, allowing, thanks to their bizarre shapes, to create unusual jewelry.