Few gems can rival the timeless elegance of pearls. For centuries, they’ve been celebrated as versatile icons of class and beauty, earning a permanent place in the world of fashion. What makes pearls so special? Their uniqueness—no two pearls are exactly alike. Each one shaped by the natural world.
Let’s take a deep dive into the stunning types of pearls, their distinct characteristics, and why they remain a favorite for jewelry lovers everywhere.
Akoya Pearls
Renowned for their perfectly round shape and mirror-like luster, Akoya pearls are synonymous with refinement. Produced by the Japanese Pinctada Fucata oyster, they are typically white or cream in color, often with a hint of pink, silver, or even rare blue overtones.
Sizes range from 6–8mm, with larger pearls reaching up to 10mm. The crème de la crème of Akoya pearls are known as Hanadama pearls, certified by Japan’s Pearl Science Laboratory for their unparalleled quality. These gems are the perfect choice for anyone seeking a timeless, polished look.
South Sea Pearls
Hailing from the warm waters of Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, South Sea pearls are revered as some of the most luxurious and valuable pearls in the world. Produced by the Pinctada Maxima oyster—the largest pearl-producing mollusk—these pearls boast impressive sizes ranging from 8–20mm.
Their breathtaking hues include classic white, shimmering silver, and opulent gold, with the Philippines often producing the most striking golden pearls. Taking up to two years to form, their rarity and grandeur come at a price, but the allure of South Sea pearls is worth every penny.
Tahitian Pearls
Dubbed “black pearls,” Tahitian pearls bring drama and mystique. Cultivated in the lagoons of French Polynesia, these pearls are created by the Black-Lipped Oyster and showcase a kaleidoscope of hues. While often dark gray or black, they can shimmer with green, blue, or purple overtones, giving them an otherworldly charm.
Tahitian pearls range from 8–18mm and are known for their natural luster and strict quality control by the Tahitian government. Each pearl is a true work of art, developed one at a time over several years.
Freshwater Pearls
Looking for something beautiful and budget-friendly? Freshwater pearls are your go-to choice. Cultivated in freshwater ponds and lakes, these pearls are produced by mussels that can yield up to 25 pearls at a time.
Available in various shapes and colors—like white, peach, lavender, and pink—freshwater pearls are perfect for everyday wear. Their durability and affordability make them a favorite for casual yet chic jewelry pieces.
Keshi Pearls
For lovers of the unique and unexpected, Keshi pearls are a treasure. Formed without a nucleus, they are composed entirely of nacre, resulting in exceptional luster and lightweight feel.
Often irregularly shaped, Keshi pearls can form in any cultured pearl environment—be it Akoya, South Sea, or Tahitian oysters. Advances in pearl farming have made these gems increasingly rare, adding to their charm and value for collectors.
Mabe Pearls
Mabe pearls, also known as “blister pearls,” are distinct for their half-spherical shape, formed against the inner shell of mollusks like the Pteria Penguin (winged oyster). These pearls take 2–3 years to form, and once harvested, they are stabilized with resin and backed with Mother-of-Pearl for a flawless finish.
Their flat backs make Mabe pearls ideal for jewelry settings like earrings and pendants. Found in shades of white, silver, and iridescent hues, they are an elegant option for those who value simplicity with a touch of sophistication.
Baroque Pearls
Baroque pearls break the mold—literally. These pearls come in unique, irregular shapes like teardrops, coins, and ovals. Their distinctive forms are influenced by the movement of the mollusk, ensuring no two Baroque pearls are alike.
While freshwater Baroque pearls are more common and affordable, saltwater varieties like South Sea and Tahitian Baroque pearls are larger, more lustrous, and prized for their exceptional beauty. Perfect for those seeking bold, artistic pieces, Baroque pearls offer a charm that’s anything but ordinary.
Biwa Pearls
Originally cultivated in Lake Biwa, Japan, Biwa pearls are celebrated for their high luster and organic, irregular shapes. Due to pollution, production has drastically declined, but the term “Biwa pearl” now applies to any freshwater pearl that bears a resemblance to these iconic gems. Their history and rarity make them a sentimental favorite, cherished by those who appreciate the artistry of pearls.
Adding to its charm and allure, each pearl has its own story and character, making these natural wonders a must-have in any jewelry collection.
Explore the world of pearls and let their beauty and history inspire your next timeless accessory.
If you’d like to have your pearl jewelry assessed and evaluated, reach out to Willyn Villarica, a NAJA-accredited jewelry appraiser, via email at willynvillarica@willynvillaricajewelry.com, on Facebook at Willyn Villarica Jewelry, or Instagram at @willynvillarica_jewelry.
