Akoya cultured pearls are the most familiar type of saltwater cultured pearl to most people in the U.S and other western markets. Many customers think of white or cream colored akoyas as the classic pearl used for jewelry, especially single-strand necklaces. Japan and China both produce akoya cultured pearls.
It was worn by kings and queens in paintings – and eaten by Elizabeth Taylor's puppy.
The Southsea pearl is the most luxurious and sought-after pearl. Cultivated within the large White-lipped oyster and the Gold-lipped oyster, the pearls are both the largest and most lustrous in natural shades of white, silver, champagne and gold.
The lip determines the pearl color. While the white pearls are also priced by jewelers, the gold pearl variety is the most coveted color. The gold South sea pearl's color can range from creamy white to deep gold, and the darker the color, the more expensive it becomes.
The most common color for pearls is white, cream, pink, purple, but they also come in colors such as champagne, chocolate, blue, gold, silver and lavender.
Akoya pearls are the preeminent cultured pearls. They are the pearls that the Mikimoto brand popularized. Prized by royalty and pearl connoisseurs for centuries, Akoya pearls have long been coveted for their perfectly round shape, richness, and deep luster.
South Sea. South Sea pearls are often referred to as the Rolls Royce of pearls. They are the largest and most valuable pearls grown today, with average sizes ranging from 10 to 15 millimeters. South Sea pearls grow in a large pearl oyster native to Australia, the Philippines, Myanmar and Indonesia.
Naturally colored blue pearls are the rarest pearl colors in the world (with one or two exceptions, which we will get to below). The color has existed in pearls for decades, but only recently have naturally colored blue pearls gained popularity in the modern pearl jewelry markets.
The most classic and widely preferred pearl color is white. The white pearl is considered a symbol of purity, and is often associated with wedding and graduation celebrations.
The cleaner the surface of the pearl, the more valuable it is. Look for an absence of disfiguring spots, bumps or cracks on the surface of a pearl, also known as "cleanliness." Notice that the highest quality pearls have a sharp, mirror-like reflection.
Characterized by their flattering pastel colors of pink/peach, white and lavender, cultured freshwater pearls are a fresh and budget-friendly way to own fine pearl jewelry without spending a fortune. Freshwater pearls are a small to mid-sized pearl type, ranging from 5.0mm through 12.0mm or so.
So where can you find the best pearls in the world? Well, that depends on what type of pearl you're looking for. If you want natural pearls, then head to Australia, the Persian Gulf or India. If you're after cultured pearls, then China is the place to go – it produces around 90% of all cultured pearls.
While the akoya pearl is considered to be (overall) more rare and valuable than the freshwater pearl, it is only the third most valuable commercially produced pearl, falling behind South Sea and Tahitians. It is still common to find top-quality akoya pearl strands retailing for more than $10,000, however.
Fine Japanese Akoya Pearls
Perfectly round, beautifully matched, with a mirror like luster – Japanese Akoya pearls can't be matched for quality and high-end appeal. This is the classic pearl necklace.
Women who have fair skin prefer pearls with rosé overtones as they feel this color compliments their skin tone best. Women who have olive skin, darker skin or women who enjoy a year-a-round tan usually purchase silver overtones. If you've ever seen royalty wearing pearls, their pearls are usually white.
In terms of symbolism, this warm, creamy pearl colour represents wealth, prosperity, courage, wisdom, success, freedom and sophistication. Furthermore, in Chinese folklore, golden pearls are thought to symbolise luck and good fortune for the wearer.
1. Melo Melo Pearl. This large sea snail creates the incredibly rare Melo Melo Pearl. The Melo Melo pearl stands out as incredibly valuable among its counterparts.
Freshwater Natural Pearl Colour
Grown in lakes, ponds and rivers, freshwater pearls generally have a bodycolour of white, cream, yellow, orange, pink or purple. These subtle pastel colours are unique to the freshwater variety.
When compared to other varieties, such as Tahitian and South Sea, Akoya pearls definitely offer good value for money without compromising on beauty. Freshwater pearls lack the deep, beautiful gleam of an Akoya. However, the palette of colors and attractive pricing makes them a great option for many people.
Pearls are a Good Investment
Both natural and cultured pearls are fine gems similar to diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. Though pearls do not increase their value the same way as the mentioned gems, pearls can still retain their original value, especially if you care for them.
Freshwater pearls have no core and are made up entirely of mother-of-pearl – so 98% of these stones are not round but oval, buttoned, drop or baroque in shape. Freshwater pearls are cheaper because they are easier to extract, making sea pearls more valued.
Fine South Sea Baroque Pearls are much more valuable and desirable than Baroque Akoya Pearls. Because of the large size difference in the two primary varieties, a South Sea Baroque Pearl is more likely to have a critical mass of lustrous surface.
Pearls can make a woman of any age look fashionable and sophisticated when worn properly. It is a common misconception to think that pearls can make one look old-fashioned. Leading fashion stylists and designers will all agree with the right knowledge and etiquette, pearls can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe.