A Guide to Pearls: Types, Colours, Origins, and Care

Few gems can rival the classic elegance of pearls. Whether gracing a simple strand necklace or adding a delicate accent to a ring, pearls have been cherished for centuries for their soft lustre and natural beauty. But did you know that not all pearls are the same? From Akoya to freshwater, from creamy white to golden, each type tells a different story of origin, colour, and character.

Types of Pearls

Akoya Pearls Akoya pearls are often the image that comes to mind when you think of the “classic” pearl necklace. Typically cultivated in the cooler waters off Japan and China, they are prized for their near-perfect round shape, mirror-like lustre, and elegant white or cream tones, often with a subtle rose or silver overtone.

Freshwater Pearls Freshwater pearls, primarily grown in lakes and rivers in China, come in a variety of shapes and a rainbow of pastel colours -- think pink, lavender, peach, and white. They’re more abundant than saltwater pearls, making them an accessible and versatile choice for both modern and traditional jewellery designs.

South Sea Pearls These are the largest and most luxurious pearls, cultivated in the warm waters of Australia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. They range in colour from satiny white to deep gold, and their size, rarity, and exceptional lustre make them a true investment piece.

Tahitian Pearls Cultivated in French Polynesia, Tahitian pearls are famous for their natural dark tones. They’re not just “black”; shades range from deep green to silver, blue, and aubergine, often with an iridescent, peacock-like sheen.

Colour & Overtones

Pearl colours can be natural or subtly enhanced. Natural hues are influenced by the oyster or mollusc species, water quality, and the environment. Overtones, those delicate hints of colour visible over the main body shade, can be rose, silver, green, gold, or blue, giving pearls a unique depth and personality.

How Pearls Are Cultivated

Pearls form when a mollusc coats an irritant inside its shell with layers of nacre, gradually creating the gem’s signature lustre. In nature, this happens entirely by chance -- these are called natural pearls -- and they are extremely rare today. In fact, most pearls on the market are cultured pearls, where the process is carefully started by pearl farmers. They insert a small bead or piece of tissue into an oyster or mussel, and from there, the mollusc does the rest. The type of cultured pearl -- Akoya, freshwater, South Sea, or Tahitian -- depends on the species of mollusc, where it’s grown, and how long it’s left to develop. Once ready, pearls are gently harvested, cleaned, sorted, and sometimes treated with mild bleaching or polishing to enhance their natural beauty.

Caring for Your Pearls

Pearls are organic gemstones, softer than many other jewellery materials, which means they require a little extra TLC:

• Last on, first off: Pearls should be the last thing you put on when getting ready and the first thing you take off to avoid exposure to perfumes, hairspray, and cosmetics.

• Gentle cleaning: After wearing, wipe them with a soft, damp cloth to remove oils and residue.

• Proper storage: Keep them in a soft pouch or separate compartment to avoid scratches from harder gemstones or metals.

• Avoid harsh chemicals: Never clean pearls in ultrasonic cleaners or with abrasive solutions; mild soap and water are best.

• Restring regularly: If you wear your pearls often, have them restrung every 1–2 years to prevent breakage.

The Lasting Beauty of Pearls

Whether you’re drawn to the classic sophistication of Akoya, the soft romance of freshwater, or the exotic allure of Tahitian, pearls remain a symbol of grace and timeless style. With proper care, your pearl jewellery can be enjoyed for generations, carrying with it both beauty and story.

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