Before successful cultivation, rare natural pearls were naturally formed within oysters or other mollusks. Early pearls were found by people harvesting oysters for food and decorative shells. These pearls were prized by royalty and the very wealthy.
In the late 1800’s to early 1900’s pearl cultivation technology was developed in Japan and Akoya saltwater pearls became a part of the worldwide jewelry market. Click below to learn more about the history of saltwater Akoya pearls.
Akoya History and Cultivation
White Akoya is the classic pearl. Within the classic white pearl color there are also overtones. This is the subtle color the pearl reflects. The pearls themselves have an inner glow that reflects ambient light in a very complementary way so they literally reflect the wearer's radiance.
Recently, darker pearls with more of a metallic, satiny sheen have also become popular. Akoya pearls are now available in these darker colors as well. Click below to learn more about Akoya pearl colors, color alteration processes and overtones.
Akoya Colors
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Today, as nearly a century of technology and experience have been earned, Akoya cultured pearls have seen a resurgence in the world find jewelry market.
Many of the techniques remain similar - from oyster cultivation, nucleation, oyster tending, harvesting and post processes. Click below to learn more about how the process began.
Akoya Today
The value of each Akoya pearl and finished pearl jewelry piece is dependant on a variety of factors.
The appearance of the pearl is paramount with factors such as luster, roundness and surface quality.
The matching of the pearls on a finished jewelry piece can influence it’s value.
In addition, less visible factors such as nacre thickness may also effect the pearl’s and pearl jewelry’s value. Value Factors |
