Akoya Pearls
Akoya pearls are timeless in historical culture. In many cultures they are representative of the moon. They enchanted ancient cultures with their silvery luscious shape and hue. Today their careful symmetry and classic style are a must add for your collection.
What Are Freshwater Pearls
With saltwater origins, the Akoya pearls come from the Pinctada fucata martensii osyer – the smallest mussel in the world. These pearls were so sought after in history, that they were the first successfully cultured pearl in Japan in the 1920s. This made the pearls more affordable and accessible, increase the popularity and price of naturally occurring saltwater Akoya pearls.
Defining Characteristics
Akoya pearls are highly sought after because of their symmetrically perfect shape and even natural color. They are the perfect blend of elegance and engineering marvel (even though they occur naturally).
SIZE
Freshwater pearls come in a wide range of sizes. They vary from 3mm to 12mm in size. The larger ones are more expensive because of their rarity and they are priced based on their size – not their weight (unlike diamonds).
COLOR
One of the biggest reason for Saltwater Pearls’ popularity is the big range of colors available. Saltwater Pearls also generally produce brighter, richer colors that typically command a greater price.
SHAPE
Perfectly round pearls are valuable. Freshwater pearls are also exceptionally desired because some pearls come in off-round and oval shapes. Freshwater pearls can sometimes make for unique jewelry pieces like pendants and earrings.
LUSTER
Like their color, freshwater pearls have a satiny lustre. They have a softer glow because of their salty origins.
