Freshwater pearls are cultured using freshwater mussels. These pearls are different in cost to their saltwater sisters due to simpler farming methods and the number of pearls possible to cultivate in one mussel. The process is the same – nacre is laid down over time and the resulting pearls are beautiful, coming in a wide range of sizes, shapes and colours. The lustre of a freshwater pearl is more satiny and soft than the metallic clarity of, say, a saltwater Akoya. Freshwater babes have their own character and appeal; they can last decades if treated well.

Silk and polyester threads are used in Luxe Acquatica pieces and will be noted as such. Silk is traditional and preferred by some collectors, while others opt for poly thread due to the range of colours we work in. All pearl strands, regardless of thread, will need to be restrung at some point due to a range of factors such as ‘give’. All our threads are hand-waxed, adding to their lifespan but, depending on how the piece is put on and taken off, the thread may stretch a little over time.

Shark teeth are featured in many of our pieces and are central to our aim to use talismans to protect wearers. Our teeth are available as natural or high-end resin reproductions, which are handmade in Australia. Pieces will be noted as natural or resin. Resin teeth are weighted accordingly with glass powder to replicate the original teeth. White shark and tiger shark teeth are most frequently used by LA. We occasionally have mako teeth available as reproductions. The reproductions do not require any paperwork to be sold internationally. We always work respectfully with each tooth to ensure you receive unique and beautiful pieces – some even have feeding marks on them, making them highly collectable.

Crocodile skins and osteoderms are used in our stunning bucket bags and earrings. These animals are a significant part of our natural environment here in the Northern Territory of Australia, where we are located. They are apex predators and are totemically and symbolically vital to us here. All crocodile materials used come from animals farmed in Australia; we aim to use as much of the animal as possible and always in a respectful manner. Jackie personally selects each skin and designs each piece around the beauty of the individual animal.

We have permits for all crocodile materials used. Additionally, all crocodile products ship with the ID provided by the Northern Territory of Australia Parks and Wildlife Commission. Please see shipping for details regarding protected animal purchases.