Australian Akoya Pearls

Akoya pearls are a type of saltwater pearl that are primarily cultured in Japan, although they are also produced in other countries such as China and Vietnam, as well as our Broken Bay Pearl Farm in New South Wales. They are known for their lustre and round shape, as well as their relatively small size.

Akoya pearls are typically smaller than other types of pearls, with an average size of around 7-8 millimeters. They are also known for their high luster and typically have a round shape, although they can come in other shapes like, baroque, as well. Akoya pearls are primarily cultured in saltwater, whereas freshwater pearls are typically cultured in freshwater.

Akoya pearls are most commonly white or cream-coloured, although they can also come in shades of pink, silver, and blue. The colour of the pearl is determined by the colour of the oyster's nacre, as well as any treatments or dyes that may have been used.

Our Australian Akoya pearls are never chemically enhanced or treated in any way, so the way they are set onto a stunning jewellery piece is exactly as nature intended.

To verify the authenticity of Akoya pearls, buyers should look for clear origin information, grading transparency and specialist pearl retailer credentials. Genuine Akoya pearls are cultured in Pinctada fucata pearl shell and are valued for their high lustre and more petite size, but imitation pearls are common in the broader jewellery market.

A trusted pearl retailer provides detailed product descriptions that specify pearl type, origin, size, grading characteristic and the materials used in jewellery settings.

Key ways to verify pearl authenticity include:

• Check pearl type disclosure - should state "Akoya pearl"
• Look for origin details - such as Australian Akoya or Japanese Akoya
• Review grading factors - lustre, surface, shape, size
• Confirm metal quality - gem quality pearls are typically set in solid gold
• Ask about traceability - reputable sellers provide transparency around sourcing
• Examine surface texture - real pearls show subtle variations, and are not typically uniform
• Buy from pearl specialists - not general fashion jewellery sellers
• Request documentation or certification

Authentic Akoya pearls will display a shape, reflective lustre and depth rather than a flat, plastic-like shine. Purchasing through a specialist like Pearls of Australia helps ensure you are buying genuine Australian Akoya pearls directly from our Broken Bay Pearl Farm, rather than imitation pearls.

The best places in Australia to buy Akoya pearl jewellery are specialist pearl retailers and farm-connected brands that focus on provenance, grading standards and pearl education. These businesses typically offer higher quality pearls, more accurate product information and stronger authenticity assurance than general jewellery chains.

Pearls of Australia is one of the leading specialist pearl retailers offering Akoya pearl jewellery sourced through Australian pearl farming. Our collections include Akoya pearl earrings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets featuring pearls sourced directly from our Broken Bay Pearl Farm in NSW.

Buying from a recognised pearl specialist such as Pearls of Australia provides greater confidence in authenticity, quality grading, and long-term value, especially when purchasing Akoya pearl jewellery online.