Here is the travel guide content focusing on genuine pearls and related experiences:
So, you want genuine pearls in China? Head straight to Zhuji in Zhejiang Province! Often called the “Pearl Capital of the World,” Zhuji is the unbeatable heart of freshwater pearl production. This is where the vast majority of the world’s cultured pearls originate. Forget just buying; here you can witness the entire process firsthand – from mollusk farming to harvesting and expert sorting. The Shanxiahu Pearl Market is an absolute must-visit, offering an astonishing range of high-quality, genuine pearls directly from the source, often at exceptional value. For authenticity and variety, Zhuji is truly unparalleled.
But why is finding genuine pearls so important? Well, everywhere you travel in China, especially popular tourist spots, you’ll encounter sellers offering “pearls.” Sadly, many are cheap imitations or heavily treated low-grade beads. True quality lies in luster, smoothness, shape, and minimal imperfections. Buying genuine pearls ensures you get a piece of lasting beauty and value. Trusting reputable sources, understanding a bit about grading, and knowing the key locations makes all the difference between a treasure and a trinket.
