Pearl Types

TAHITIAN
The Tahitian pearl is grown from the shell of the Pinctada margaritifera oyster. The colors tend to be at the darker end of the spectrum – from black, gray, steely metallic hues, dark blue and peacock green. They fall under the category of South Sea but stand alone in beauty.

SOUTH SEA
Ranging from 9mm up to 16mm in diameter, these beauties are usually found in the Southeast Asian region or off Australian waters. They come in a variety of colors, the most popular being black, white and gold – with a many hues in between. Some of the more popular colors, such as gold, can be found in the Philippine region.

AKOYA
The classic white, round “sea” pearls farmed off the coasts of Japan. The luster and orient displayed from these types of pearls are unmatched but they rarely exceed 10mm in diameter. Mikimoto pearls are the standard from which these pearls are based.

FRESH WATER
The most common of the pearls you will find on the market today. In certain freshwater oysters, up to 40 to 50 pearls can be produced at one time. Cultured freshwater pearls are produced in various and interesting shapes and colors which has allowed for its popularity in unique jewelry.