Best in the small shops in old town or the factory: "Mallorca's Famous Artificial Pearls" Palma de Mallorca Shopping Tip by dlytle

Pearls made in Mallorca, Spain are a faithful imitation of a fine natural pearl and are famous worldwide. Mallorca produces 50 million artificial pearls every year.

Approximately 100 years ago, in the town of Manacor on the island of Mallorca, it occurred to some residents to produce a pearl of high quality, with a specific shine, shape and weight, similar to that of natural pearls.

To make these "artificial pearls" a crystal nucleus of high density is produced, with a specific weight very similar to that of the natural fine pearl.

Mother of pearl and ocean substances are obtained, which together with dyes hardeners, etc., produce a mother of pearl solution which is adequate to bath the nucleus. The actual technique is a closely guarded secret. But it is known that it involves a solution made from the scales of multitudes of fish.

The nucleus is bathed in this solution then dried by a heated rotating wheel. This operation is repeated until several layers are accumulated over the nucleus. The thickness of the layers will guarantee the quality of the pearl.

Selection of fine pearls is a very meticulous process, ensuring the elimination of any defective pearls. There are ten quality control points throughout the process of the production of the “Perlas Elegancia” pearls.

So if you're after the island's famous pearls, Mallorca's second largest town (Manacor) is the place to come. This industrial city has been cultivating pearls since 1890, and numerous shops here sell the little gems. The best place to get them is the factory on the outskirts of town, where you can take a tour of the manufacturing process before you buy. Don't come looking for a bargain though; artificial pearls, such as those cultivated in Manacor, look very like (and last longer than) the real thing so they can be quite expensive.

Mallorca pearls are superior to natural ones because they are less prone to deterioration caused by perfume, make-up, nail varnish and perspiration. Just clean them regularly with a soft cloth and warm water.

Directions: Best bought in Manacor at the factory, or if not there in the small shops in old town Palma.
Theme: Jewelry