 )
)Here is another example. These pearls are iridescent. They have no discernible overtone or orient. Instead, they look like they were lightly coated in aurora borealis.
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I have a request. At the next Ruckus, can someone speak about "Orient, Overtone and Iridescence"? An explanation followed by a few clear examples of each visible on a variety of pearls that we could handle and inspect would be terrific! With so many farmers/vendors present, there should be some beautiful examples available and great discussions taking place.

 by the number of stars next to the thread name.
 by the number of stars next to the thread name.Hi folks,
I too would appreciate some clarification. I recently ordered a white freshadama strand for my wife with rose overtones. It looks great, now I'm wondering if I should have looked at the "metallic" variety. How do they compare? Thanks!

I would say the pair have pink and green overtones. As for the golden SSP, I do see the green overtone.
Orient is usually easier to see in pearls of irregular shape; the layers of nacre refract the light to create a rainbow effect.
The overtone is seen in the dark area in a highly lustrous pearl. Orient can be seen anywhere on the pearl. Let me dig up a photo that I've used before...
Okay, look at this:

and this:

and contrast that orient with the pink and blue overtones in these vintage graduated akoyas:


