Akoya pearl is a saltwater pearl from the akoya oyster (Pinctada fucata martensii). Because akoya are the most abundant type of saltwater pearl with the longest cultured history, information on akoyas is abundant! Akoya are considered to be the classic pearl used for necklaces and other pearl jewelry, with perfect round shapes, bright mirror-like luster and neutral colors, akoya pearls are favored by most retailers and consumers as the classic pearl choice.
After pearls are cultivated and harvested from the South Seas, they need to be processed. South Sea pearls have an extremely thick coating of nacre. This makes them very strong, durable and unique. Pearls taken from this area have a natural beauty of their own. Most other pearls are put through processing to bring out that beauty. However, South Sea pearls need very little processing to shine.There are many factors that need to be taken into consideration when establishing the value of pearls. Due to the fact that South Sea Pearls are very rare, as well as on the larger side, their value is higher.
Black pearls, also known as Tahitian pearls, are coveted for their exotic beauty. With their large size and greenish or pinkish sheen, they are reminiscent of the tropical settings in the South Pacific from which they hail.The large, black-lipped oyster native to the waters of the South Pacific is responsible for giving birth to the black cultured pearl. The oyster is about twice the size of the Akoya pearl oyster and produces larger pearls, and its species is responsible for the colors of the pearls that emerge from it.
Freshwater pearls are known for their gorgeous colors, variety and affordable prices. These organic beauties are popular in jewelry designs because of their warm, feminine and unique shapes and colors. Freshwater pearls come in a breathtaking variety of colors: pink, gold, blue, green, peach, lavender, gray, white and cream. Because they are so abundant (and often inexpensive), freshwater pearls are also often dyed bolder, fashionable colors such as black, copper, red or other bright colors.