Pearls have been a symbol of elegance, sophistication, and status for centuries. But not all that glitters are genuine.

Majorcan pearls , famous for their flawless appearance, have won over shop windows and hearts worldwide. But did you know they aren't real pearls?

In this article you will discover what they really are, why their price can be misleading, and what the natural alternative is that is revolutionizing modern jewelry.

What are the Pearls of Mallorca?

Majorca Pearls are imitation pearls manufactured on the Spanish island of Majorca since the late 19th century. Although their appearance is strikingly similar to that of a natural pearl, their composition tells a different story.

• They are made of glass balls coated with a substance called Essence of the Orient , which contains guanine , a component extracted from fish scales that gives them that pearly shine.

• Then a layer of lacquer is applied to protect them from the sun and preserve their luminosity.

This artisanal process has been perfected over decades, allowing these pearls to look authentic… but they are not.

Are they real pearls?

No. Majorca Pearls are neither natural nor cultured pearls. They are a high-quality imitation , but they are still an industrial product.

Unlike cultured pearls, which form inside oysters or mussels over years, those from Mallorca are produced in factories in a matter of days.

Why did they become so popular?

During the 19th century, the only pearls available were natural ones, which were extremely rare and expensive. Only one in 10,000 oysters produced a quality pearl. This made them a luxury reserved for royalty and the elite.

Majorcan pearls offered a solution: an affordable alternative that allowed ordinary people to wear jewelry similar to that of high society. Their impeccable aesthetics and lower price turned them into a global phenomenon.

The turning point of the century: the arrival of cultured pearls

At the beginning of the 20th century, Japan revolutionized the industry with the discovery of cultured pearls , a process that allows the formation of pearls in oysters under controlled conditions.

• Although initially expensive, cultured pearls began to democratize access to authentic jewelry.

• In the 80s and 90s, a necklace of Akoya or South Sea pearls could cost as much as a car.

But everything changed with the arrival of freshwater pearls .

The natural alternative: Cultured freshwater pearls

Since the 2000s, freshwater pearls have gained popularity due to their beauty, accessibility, and sustainability.

• They are cultivated in freshwater mussels , which are more resistant and capable of producing multiple pearls.

• Its environment is easier to control than the ocean, which improves quality and reduces cost.

• Today, these pearls rival saltwater pearls in aesthetics, but at much more affordable prices.

Why do many people believe that the Pearls of Mallorca are real?

The confusion stems from several factors:

• The name “pearls” has been used to describe imitations, as opposed to fake diamonds which are called cubic zirconia or moissanite.

• The most recognized brands of Majorcan pearls have built a luxury image that hides their artificial origin.

• The price of some imitations even exceeds that of cultured pearls, which raises doubts among consumers.

Price comparison: imitation or authenticity?

Why choose freshwater cultured pearls?

1. Authenticity and intrinsic value

Each cultured pearl is unique, formed by nature and time. Its value depends not on a brand, but on its quality and origin.

2. Sustainability

Cultured pearls are the most environmentally friendly gemstone in the world. They require no mining and promote the conservation of clean waters.

3. Durability and natural beauty

Unlike imitations, real pearls do not lose their luster over time. Their surface reflects light organically, creating an unparalleled aesthetic.

Is it worth buying Pearls from Mallorca today?

It depends on what you're looking for. If you like the shine and elegance of pearls, but don't want to spend as much as on natural ones, then they're perfect. They're beautiful, durable, and elegant.

But if you're looking for a very valuable piece of jewelry or something to invest in, these might not be what you're looking for.

At Laurella, authenticity is non-negotiable.

When it comes to jewelry, every choice speaks volumes about who you are and the value you place on authenticity. At Laurella , we believe that beauty should go hand in hand with authenticity. That's why our jewelry is crafted exclusively with cultured pearls , selected according to rigorous quality standards and of natural origin.

We don't work with imitations. We choose pearls that have been formed by nature, that tell a real story, and that represent much more than luxury: they represent heritage, conscious elegance, and confidence.

So the next time you buy a piece of jewelry, make sure your investment reflects what truly matters.