When designing jewellery I love to find new and exciting materials with which to create my pieces.  During some research for new materials, I came across Japanese Keshi (Keishi) pearls and became quite besotted with them.  I found some Keshi pearls shaped like petals (sometimes known as cornflake pearls)and knew I would have fun using them to create bridal jewellery and head dresses.

Normally a pearl is formed when a piece of shell or other foreign object becomes embedded in a molusc (such as an oyster) to form a nucleus. This causes an infection and the oyster forms a protective layer (nacre) to stop the irritation. The nacre continues to be formed layer upon layer, as long as the oyster is alive, and this is how pearls are created.

In the case of the Keshi pearl, there are two ways that the pearl can form. The first way occurs when the oyster rejects and spits out the substance – the nucleus – before it has a chance to develop. The second way a Keshi pearl can occur is when the nucleus fractures and forms two separate pearl sacs – that is, circles of nacre – neither with a nucleus. Eventually, one or two nucleus-less pearls will usually form.

Keshi pearls are not classed as natural pearls as they are a by-product of the culturing process. However, they are now fairly rare because most pearl farmers now x-ray their oysters to allow them to re-nucleate the oyster should it be found to have expelled the nucleus. Their rarity combined with a brilliant lustre means that Keshi pearls are now considered to be exceptional and are highly desirable.

As they are generally found in irregular shapes, they add a beautiful, quirky dimension to a jewellery design.

The pictures below show how I used some lavender Keshi pearls to create delicate flowers for my Keshi Flower Tiara.

The petal shaped pearls were perfect for creating the flowers and their beautiful lavender shade complemented the faceted amethyst briolettes.    

Together with the asymmetrical placing of the flowers and the delicate curves of the silver wire, the Keshi petal pearls allowed me to create an unusual design which is both striking and unique.  Perfect for an heirloom piece such as a bridal tiara.

I sourced some beautiful Keshi pearls in a creamy white colour.  These pearls are perfect for bridal wear, as they will complement most gowns.  They're a perfect alternative for the bride who loves pearls, but who wants to wear something a little less conventional than traditional round pearls.

The picture below shows how I have used Keshi Pearls to create another unusual tiara.  The Keshi Pearl Delight Bridal Tiara is ideal for brides who want a vintage feel to their wedding day attire.  The tiara is worn flat to the head like an alice band, so the Keshi pearl and wire work design sits against the hair.  Height is added by the feathers, which completes the look with a very 1920s feel. 

As can be seen in the picture, the Keshi pearls are large enough to be seen in the hair and their lustre shimmers beautifully in any light.

The picture below shows how Keshi pearls can be used to create beautiful, delicate jewellery for brides.  The Keshi Pearl and Crystal Illusion Bracelet is simple and delicate.  The petal shapes further enhance the theme of weddings, as they conjure images of confetti.