At LENAE, every piece begins with a story — not just of design, but of origin. We work almost exclusively with freshwater pearls for one simple reason: they align beautifully with our values of authenticity, craftsmanship and contemporary design. But there is more to the story than aesthetics alone. So if you have ever wondered, “Are freshwater pearls real?” — the answer is a resounding yes.
What Are Freshwater Pearls — and Are They Real?
Yes, freshwater pearls are real pearls. They are grown naturally in mussels rather than oysters, in rivers and lakes rather than oceans. Though their shapes may not always follow the traditional round silhouette, that is precisely where their charm lies. Each freshwater pearl is formed layer by layer, a process that can take years — resulting in lustrous, one-of-a-kind gems shaped by time and water.
Freshwater vs Saltwater Pearls: What is the Difference?
Unlike saltwater pearls (like Akoya or Tahitian), freshwater pearls tend to have softer shapes, warmer tones and greater individuality. They are more abundant, which makes them a more accessible choice — but that does not mean they are any less special.
In fact, we find the beauty of freshwater pearls in their variation. LENAE’s designs favour unexpected forms and organic textures — qualities freshwater pearls provide naturally. Their subtle asymmetry and characterful curves are part of what gives our jewellery its cool, modern soul.
Baroque Pearls: Perfect in Their Imperfection
We love working with baroque pearls — irregular in shape, impossible to duplicate and endlessly intriguing. These pearls make each earring or pendant completely unique, echoing the individuality of the person who wears them. They are proof that real beauty does not have to follow a pattern.
Explore our Baroque Pearl Edit to see how we style these expressive forms into pieces designed for everyday wear.
Star Pearls: Real, Rare, and Radiant
Among our most distinctive designs are those featuring star-shaped pearls — freshwater pearls cultivated to take on a natural star-like form. These pearls are real, their shape achieved through careful cultivation, making them a fresh take on traditional pearl jewellery. With their soft lustre and playful silhouette, they bring something new to the world of pearl design: a sense of lightness, whimsy and originality.
You will find these unique pieces in our curated Star Pearl Edit, where contemporary design meets natural wonder.
Why We Choose Freshwater Pearls
Choosing freshwater pearls is also a conscious decision. LENAE works only with ethical partners who value transparency, quality and sustainability. We source pearls that are not just beautiful — but responsibly harvested and thoughtfully handled at every step.
Each pearl used in our collection reflects what we believe jewellery should be: real, refined and grounded in meaning.
Real pearls, real style — always.
Browse The Pearl Edit to find your next favourite.