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What’s in a name
We all know how important nomenclature is in the industry; having not only the correct name but one that is also well known helps increase awareness and understanding for the products and pieces that go into the jewelry we all love so much.
The Cultured Pearl Association of America recently sent out an email addressing how pearl producers currently use different names for bead nucleated freshwater cultured pearls and how its members feel that this is confusing everyone.
The nucleus of these pearls consists of a round bead rather than freshwater tissue.
Coming up with one name for everyone to use when referring to the category would “allow for a deeper understanding, perception, and continuity to this classification/category,” the CPAA said in the email, and benefit all groups involved, including consumers.
Their solution to this problem is a great one--they’re holding a pearl-naming contest to address what that type of pearl should be called.
Here’s how to get in on it: The deadline is March 1 to send in suggested names for bead nucleated freshwater cultured pearls. They can be emailed to Bo Perry at boperry@cpaa.org.
The selected name, chosen by a panel of industry professionals, will be announced on March 12.
The winner will receive 50 raffle tickets ($500 worth) for the CPAA’s “Trip to Fiji” contest, which includes an all-expenses-paid trip for two to J. Hunte’s pearl farm in Fiji and a stay at Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Fiji Island Resort.
The winning name will be researched, registered and then distributed to all producers of bead nucleated freshwater cultured pearls to clear up any confusion.
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