FRESHWATER PEARLS Freshwater pearls are easily cultivated from freshwater mussels rather than saltwater oysters. They are produced in great abundance, and therefore generally the most moderately priced of all cultured pearl varieties. Their unique shapes and gentle pastel colours make them perfect gems for those on a budget. Cultivated in China, Japan and the U.S. KESHII PEARLS Keshi pearls, though not nucleated cultured pearls, are created by accident as a result of the culturing process and thus must be considered cultured pearls. Their unusual shapes and sizes are best used in unique jewellery designs. Cultivated in Japan, Australia, French Polynesia, Indonesia and the Phillipines. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 MABE PEARLS Mabe pearls are hemishperical cultured pearls grown against the inside of an oyster rather than within the oyster's body. They are generally used in ring, earring and pendant settings which cover their flat backs or reverse side. Cultivated in Japan, Australia, French Polynesia, Indonesia and the Phillipines.