An overview
Basra pearls are a type of natural gemstone that originated in the Persian Gulf in the Middle East. Interestingly, it was named Basra because at that time it was mainly traded in the Iraqi city of Basra on the banks of the Shatt-Al- Arab River.
The popularity
Popularised by the Nizam tribe of Hyderabad, the simple sophistication of pearls has captivated jewellers, brides, and aficionados for centuries.
The certified Basra pearl allure has even gained approval from celebrity brides these days. Deepika Padukone wore a pearl satlada on Mehandi, Anushka Sharma wore a diamond choker with pearl drops for the second reception, and Sonam Kapoor Ahuja chose a similar design for Kundan. And beads.
Types of pearls
Broadly speaking, pearls are divided into natural and cultured (or man-made) varieties, but the natural ones are very rare and obviously of higher value.
Tahitian and Mabe pearls are well-known and readily available. However, there is a version that is advertised as precious - Basra pearls.
The legacy
An interesting story about this type of bead dates back to 1865-1870 when Maharaja Candela Oge quad of Baroda ordered cloth to be embroidered with these gems, colored glass beads, diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds in silver and gold called the Baroda Pearl Canopy, this necklace is made up of approximately 9,50,000 pearls transformed into flamboyant floral arabesques inspired by India and the Mughal Empire.
It was eventually inherited by his descendant, Maharani Sita Devi of Baroda, but was eventually transferred to the State Treasury, where it was kept for decades. Recently, in June 2019, a canopy was sold for around $2.2 million
In India, jewellery made from certified Basra pearls has become an integral part of the Nizams of Hyderabad collection. One of the most talked about creations is the seven-strand pearl necklace known as the satlada, which contains 465 pearls encrusted with diamonds, rubies and emeralds.
Although very rare today, these pearls became more popular 50 years ago. Especially among the older generation who were avid collectors of vintage jewellery, getting their hands on these gems.
How are these different from other natural pearls?
- In terms of physical properties, Basra jade is much lighter than other natural variants. They also boast a unique light-scattering effect that most other stones don't have. Most pearls are oddly shaped, so if you can get your hands on some of the round pearls, they'll be even more priceless.
What makes this so special?
The cultivation of these pearls is limited to a specific species of oyster found in the Persian region making them very rare. And since oil production has become Widespread in the Middle East, the oyster ecosystem has been affected and even destroyed to a large extent.
Pearls from this region have been prized for hundreds of years for their spherical shape, silvery-white colour, and unparalleled iridescence.
To draw parallels with the numbers, although you can set a price per carat for other natural pearls, these are priceless in the sense that their cost is completely dependent on size and the seller of course.
The astrological significance
These have been treasured for centuries - their use dates back to almost 300 BC. In fact, the purity and colour have been compared to the moon.
Astrologically, they are also said to have a strong impact on the mind. Due to its rarity, even the discovery of a pearl is considered lucky.
The four C's - Cut, Colour, Clarity, Carat Weight
They commonly have a Cabochon cut, giving the pearl a sophisticated floor and improving its beauty.
These stunning pearls are commonly Opaque and are available in white colour, however, they are available in numerous sun sunglasses like gold, silver, cream, yellow, brown, pink, or peach.
The natural pearl has a minimum weight of 1.04 carats and might move up to twenty carats.
Spiritual healing
The pearl may be very powerful in mild dispersing effects. This gemstone is likewise related to the zodiac sign Cancer. In earlier times this was considered the right fortune.
Benefits of wearing these gems
Because of the purity and colour of the Basra Pearl, astrologically in comparison to the moon and in turn believed to have a sturdy fine impact on the mind. It also allows you to ease your emotions when you wear it on yourself.
Who Should Wear?
As it is associated with the zodiac sign Cancer, it must be worn by them. However other than Cancerians, it could be fruitful for people with Aries, Scorpio, and Pisces zodiac signs.
The gemstone is known for its light-scattering effects and virtues. It is related to the zodiac sign Cancer.
Price per carat
- The price per carat in India starts from ₹15,000 per carat (about $230) and can go up to ₹1 lakh per carat (about $1,540) depending on the size, shape, colour, and other important quality factors.
How do you preserve it through your collections?
Pearls can be bought on special occasions (exorbitant cost is the obvious reason). Usually, the pearls used are small in size. The jeweller who makes this jewellery must be an expert with them, as you cannot use them in everyday life.
Traditionally used in jadau or Polki jewellery or simply bead drops. For the bride, I think the most elegant way to wear a Basra is to wear a pearl necklace for your reception or an after-party. Another great option is to alternate large pearls with vintage diamond jewellery, which can be worn for the main ceremony or sangeet.
Where can you buy these exotic pearls?
We recommend going to an authentic jeweller who has complete information about Basra pearls. At Navratan gem bazaar we make sure you get an authentic certification on your purchase.
In fact, in Bahrain, there is a laboratory dedicated only to certifying Basra pearls, which is the most ideal way to do it.
Since there is no way to identify real pearls from fake versions, you should choose them carefully, especially considering their high price.
At Navratan, we recommend that you purchase genuine certified original stones of your choice from our online gem marketplace and receive a certificate of authenticity. Our gemstones are extensively analysed and certified by reputable laboratories including SSEF, GRS, GIA, IGI, and Gubelin. Navratan provides reliable worldwide shipping. Believe in our brand and be confident in the gems you buy from us!