Pearls come in many types and varieties, each shapes by the pearl species, water conditions, and environment in which they grow.
Understanding pearl types helps you identify the qualities that make each one unique.
The most well-known include:
South Sea pearls: Grown in Australia (like at our Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm), Indonesia, and the Philippines, these are some of the largest and rarest pearls in the world. Their thick nacre and stunning lustre make them highly prized by collectors.
Akoya pearls: Cultivated mainly in Japan and Australia, like our Broken Bay Pearl Farm, Akoya pearls are known for their mirror-like lustre and variety of colours. They're the classic choice for Akoya pearl stud earrings and other refined akoya pearl jewellery.
Tahitian pearls: Produce by the Black Lip Pearl Oyster, these pearl display natural dark hues ranging from charcoal to peacock green.
Freshwater pearls: Grown primarily in lakes and rivers, they come in a wide range of shapes and colours. When comparing the difference between Akoya and freshwater pearls, Akoya pearls are saltwater pearls with typically better lustre, while freshwater pearls provide variety and affordability.
Keshi pearls: Formed with no nucleus, as a by-product of the cultured pearl farming process, keshi pearls re known for their organic shapes and beautiful nacre. They are considered one of the more rare types of pearls.
Mabe pearls: A type of half-pearl grown against the shell interior, ideal for bold rings and earrings.
Our Provenance and Eternal collections feature both our Australian South Sea and Akoya pearls side by side, so you can see the difference between our precious gems set in unique designs.
Each pearl type has its own story and value. To learn more about pearls, visit our Pearls of Wisdom article.
