Akoya pearls are the classic image of a pearl strand—known for their mirror‑like luster, perfectly round shape, and elegant white hues with rose or silver overtones. First cultivated in Japan in the early 1900s, they remain the benchmark of traditional pearl beauty and refinement.
A hundred years later, we can attest that Akoya pearls bring us joy and illuminate every skin tone with colors beyond white— silver, silvery blue, creamy golden, and of course, timeless white.
Akoya pearls are perfect for beginning—and cherishing—a lifelong pearl wardrobe. Choose them for everyday wear, weddings, and all of life’s special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
about Akoya Pearls
1. Where do Akoya pearls come from?
They are grown in the temperate coastal waters of Japan and Vietnam in the Pinctada fucata martensii oyster — a small oyster that produces perfectly round pearls up to 11 mm in diameter.
2. How do Akoya pearls differ from Freshwater pearls?
Akoya pearls and Freshwater pearls differ in their origin, structure, and overall appearance. Akoya pearls, cultured in Japan and Vietnam inside the Pinctada fucata martensii oyster, have a saltwater origin and are beloved for their icy, mirror‑like luster and precise round shape. They typically develop a thin layer of nacre (about 0.2 – 0.5 mm) over a bead nucleus, which creates their brilliant sheen, coming from within.
Freshwater pearls, cultured in lakes and ponds of China within mussels such as Hyriopsis cumingii, form naturally without a bead core, making them almost entirely solid nacre. They often exhibit gentler satin luster or, in top‑grade varieties, a vivid “metallic” shine. Freshwater pearls also offer a wider natural color range—from white and peach to lavender and prune.
In short: Akoya pearls express traditional, high‑gloss elegance, while Freshwater pearls embody soft luminosity and natural color diversity. Each offers its own form of beauty and value to collectors and lovers of pearls alike.
3. Are Akoya pearls natural or treated?
Akoya pearls are cultured, meaning they grow inside live oysters around a carefully inserted bead nucleus. They are genuine, organic gems—not synthetic or imitation pearls.
After harvest, virtually all fine Japanese Akoya pearls go through traditional finishing processes such as gentle cleaning, bleaching, and slight rose‑tinting to refine their color and make strands look evenly matched. These are standard, permanent treatments that do not affect nacre integrity or durability.
Untreated Akoya pearls, showing their natural cream, silver‑blue, or golden tones, are very rare and especially prized by collectors. Regardless of finishing, every Akoya pearl remains a true gem of the sea—valued for its luminous luster and classic look.
4. How should I care for my Akoya pearl jewelry?
Wipe the pearls with a soft cloth after each wear, store them separately from metal or sharp jewelry, and avoid exposure to perfume, hair spray, and chemicals to maintain their luster for decades.
