How to Choose the Right Pearl Type

The best way to complete an outfit is to add a piece of statement jewellery. This fashionable decoration comes in many styles, designs and colours, with pearls being a fan favourite among jewellery lovers. Generally, this gem is known for its timeless beauty and elegant appearance which looks great on women of all ages and can suit any skin tone. It is very versatile as you can wear it to both casual and formal occasions and easily make it the focal piece of an outfit.

However, putting on any piece of pearl jewellery isn’t as simple as it sounds. There are a few pearl varieties out there that have their own unique characteristics which pearl lovers should know about so they can make the right choice. Understanding the basic pearl traits will help individuals learn how to buy pearls and purchase the ones that fit them best.

Here is a brief description of the four popular pearl types.

Akoya pearls

If you are looking for the truest form of this beautiful gem, then Akoya pearls are your best option. This variety is often referred to as the classic pearl type that every refined woman wants to have in her jewellery collection. For the most part, they are cultured in Japan, China and Vietnam, with Japan known to produce the most consistently beautiful Akoyas in the world. What makes this pearl variety very popular are its unique traits. These include its traditional white colour, often combined with subtle pink, silver or creamy overtones, a perfectly round shape and high-quality lustre. It is the best type if you want to achieve an elegant look for any special occasion.

Tahitian pearls

After the Akoya pearls, the second most unique pearl type available is Tahitian pearls. This variety is most famous for its natural black colour as it is harvested from black-lipped oysters found in the coastal waters of French Polynesia. These pearls have a glossy, metallic and grey colouring which often comes with blue, green, purple or pink overtones. As for their size, Tahitian pearls can grow very large, with a diameter up to 15 mm which is often rare to find and also more expensive. So, if you are looking for an exotic and luxurious pearl type to style with both your casual and formal clothing, then these black pearls are a great choice for you.

Freshwater pearls

A more affordable pearl type that is just as beautiful as the other varieties are freshwater pearls. These gems come primarily from China and are best known for their pastel rainbow colours that range from white to pink, peach and lavender, and their wide range of sizes and shapes. You can also find them in darker tones, but these are often treated with special dyes to enhance or change their colouring. The pearls dyed in black colour are known as peacock pearls as a result of their shimmering violet iridescence. The freshwater pearls are excellent for those who want to skip the classic white pearls and opt for something in a bit more vibrant colour.

South Sea pearls

South Sea pearls, commonly referred to as the Queens of Pearls, are the largest and most luxurious pearl type available on the market today. Their most unique trait is that they are grown in the treacherous waters that lie between Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines. They mostly come in various baroque shapes and grow larger in size than other pearl types, making them even more valuable. As for their colour, South Sea pearls can be white, silver or golden, depending on the type of oyster they are growing in. Their remarkable satiny lustre imparts a subtle glow which is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

Final thoughts

Pearls are undoubtedly the most beautiful and timeless jewellery type out there. Depending on the oysters they are growing in, this gem comes in various colours, shapes and sizes, all of which add to its value. From the classic white Akoya pearls to the naturally black Tahitian pearls, there is a pearl variety that can suit anyone’s taste and skin tone.

In order to make the right choice, it is recommended that you first understand the differences between the four types so you can make a sound investment. Use our post as a guide and purchase the pearl type that suits you best.