What are the different types of pearls?
There are four major types of pearls, Freshwater, Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea.
Akoya
Akoya pearls are grown in an oyster known as Pinctada fucata martensii found in Japan, China, Korea and Vietnam. They are the smallest types of cultured pearls on the market. Sizing of Akoya pearls can range from 2mm to 8mm, producing colours of white, grey, blue, and cream and are typically round in shape.
South Sea
Around the world, South Sea pearls are considered the most prestigious of all the pearl varieties. Found in pristine waters predominantly in Australia and Indonesia, South Sea pearls grow in the Pinctada Maxima oyster, renowned for its depth of lustre, and richness in colours and hues. The South Sea pearls are also are the largest of all pearl types, ranging from 8mm to 20mm.
Tahitian
Tahitian pearls originate from French Polynesia. They range between 8mm to 15mm, coming in second to South Sea pearls for their size. Grown in the Pinctada margaritifera oyster and found in shades of dark grey, charcoal and green with various undertones. They are usually round or baroque in size.
Freshwater
Freshwater pearls are most commonly farmed in China, and are grown in the Margaritifera mussel as opposed to its cousins. A single freshwater pearl mussel is capable of producing up to 50 pearls at a time, making them the least expensive on the market due to the various size, shapes and colours that are produced. Due to the way in which freshwater pearls are harvested inside the muscle, the Lustre is typically a more subtle glow than sea water pearls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the rarest type of pearl?
South Sea pearls are considered the most prestigious and rarest of the major cultured pearl varieties, prized for their large size and exceptional lustre.
Which type of pearl is the most affordable?
Freshwater pearls are typically the least expensive, since a single freshwater mussel can produce up to 50 pearls at once.
What type of pearls does AUTORE MODA use?
AUTORE MODA exclusively uses South Sea pearls, sustainably sourced from the affiliated AUTORE farms in Australia and Indonesia.
What's the biggest pearl type?
South Sea pearls are the largest of all cultured pearl types, ranging from 8mm to 20mm.
When shopping with AUTORE MODA, you are purchasing jewellery pieces that are carefully crafted with the rarest gem of them all, South Sea pearls. The company sustainably sources all South Sea pearls used in their jewellery from the affiliated AUTORE farms located in the crystal clear oceans along the coastlines of Australia and Indonesia. Shop our latest collection now.
