When it comes to selecting the finest pearls, quality, value, and beauty all play a crucial role. The best pearls exhibit a radiant luster, flawless surface, and desirable shape, making them a treasured addition to any jewelry collection.

But what are the best pearls, and how do you determine their value?

Understanding the different types of pearls available and their unique characteristics is essential to making an informed choice.

There are four main types of cultured pearls today: Japanese Akoya, black Tahitian, White or Golden South Sea pearls, and cultured Freshwater from China.

Pearls of Joy has dedicated resources with our extensive Pearl Education to help you understand exactly which pearls will be the best pearls in the world for you! From selecting the Best Pearl Necklace Length to the Best Pearl Earrings, or learning which pearl type you’d love to own, Pearls of Joy is here to help you on your journey!

The best pearl jewelry in the world is defined by the pearl’s superior luster, impeccable surface, bright, pastel colors and of course, rarity. These high-quality gems are often sourced from pristine waters where expert pearl farmers cultivate them with precision and passion.

Akoya pearls from Japan are often considered the epitome of classic elegance, and are famous for their mirror-like luster, perfectly round shape and even matching. When you close your eyes and envision a pearl necklace, it’s likely Akoya pearls you are thinking of.

Of all the Akoya pearls produced by Japan, the PSL Certified Hanadama Akoya are considered the absolute “Cream of the Crop”! These lustrous pearls were named “Hanadama” by Mikimoto himself, denoting the highest quality saltwater Akoya pearls from each harvest. The term “Hanadama” means “Flower Pearl”, and gained the term of endearment because of their delicate rosé overtones that so resembled the beloved cherry blossoms that are known to shower the streets of Tokyo each Spring.

Tahitian pearls, cultivated in the warm waters of French Polynesia, boast exotic black, green, and blue overtones, setting them apart as one of the most luxurious pearl varieties. Look for Tahitian pearls with smooth, clean surfaces, highly reflective luster with sharp, crisp and defined edges and shows a detailed reflection of objects visible on the surface of the pearls. The very best quality Tahitian pearls will also feature a strong, beautifully saturated overtone; the most popular Tahitian pearl overtone is Peacock, which is a shimmering mix of Green, Gold and Rose.

South Sea pearls, grown in Australia, the Philippines, and Indonesia, are prized for their large sizes and glowing, satiny luster, often fetching premium prices. These pearls are considered the pinnacle of sophistication and elegance in the pearl world, and are known as the "Queen of Cultured Pearls". Dazzling the eye and the imagination with their natural shades of Gold and bright Silver-White, along with their large sizes ranging from 8-9mm up through 16-17mm and beyond, White and Golden South Sea pearls are for the luxury pearl lover!

Freshwater pearls offer an affordable yet beautiful alternative, featuring a wide variety of colors and fun designer shapes. Each type has distinct qualities that appeal to different tastes and budgets. Choose from natural White, Pink, Peach and Lavender hues, and a wide range of sizes that will compete with the Japanese Akoya, but at a fraction of the cost. The best quality Freshwater pearls are graded AAAA quality, and will feature shapes that are as close to perfectly round as possible, with smooth, clean surfaces and a softly glowing luster that appears to come from within.

📢 Read More: Pearl Types 101

Choosing the best type of pearls depends on personal preference, lifestyle, and budget. Akoya pearls are ideal for those seeking timeless elegance, as their high luster and round shape make them perfect for formal occasions and everyday wear. If you are new to pearls, purchasing fine pearl jewelry for the first time, or are looking to up your collection to include highly lustrous, classically white pearl jewelry, then the Japanese Akoya pearl is the way to go!

📢 Read More: Akoya Pearl Buyer's Guide

If you prefer something exotic and bold, Tahitian pearls offer a unique allure with their dark, mysterious hues and colorful rainbow of overtones. Tahitian pearl necklaces, earrings, pendants and rings add an arresting allure of unique style to any outfit or occasion, and just the right touch of drama! We generally recommend Tahitian pearl jewelry for pearl shoppers who have already covered "the basics" and are looking to expand their pearl collections to include pearls that are dazzlingly unique.

📢 Read More: The Tahitian Pearl Buyer's Guide

For those looking for luxury and prestige, South Sea pearls provide a statement of opulence with their Golden and White varieties. South Sea pearl necklaces are available in larger than average sizes, generally starting at 9-11mm and growing larger from there. Whether you choose the bright Silver-White or White South Sea pearls, deep and warm Golden South Sea pearls or a strand of mixed colors, these pearls will stand out from the crowd every time, and draw attention no matter where they're worn. For earrings and pendants, we recommend starting with 10mm minimum sizes for a luxurious and elegant look; classic pearl studs will add instant elegance, or adorn your South Sea pearls with sparkling diamond accents for added opulence.

📢 Read More: The South Sea Pearl Buyer's Guide

Freshwater pearls, on the other hand, are a great option for budget-conscious buyers who still want beautiful, high-quality pearls. With a wide range of shapes and colors, Freshwater pearls can suit any style, making them an excellent choice for fashion-forward jewelry lovers. Choose from natural colors like a classic white pearl necklace, or opt for Springtime hues of pink, peach and lavender. Freshwater pearl jewelry starts at more moderate sizes ranging from 6-7mm up through 9-10mm, and provide a versatile and budget friendly option for pearl shoppers just dipping their toes into buying pearls for the first time, or who want to add a dash of pastel colors into their jewelry wardrobe.

📢 Read More: The Freshwater Pearl Buyer's Guide

Pearls of Joy has been importing our Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea and Freshwater pearls direct from the pearl farmers and auctions overseas for decades, ensuring that only the finest, top 10% of all pearl harvests are available for our customers to choose from when buying pearl jewelry.

No matter which pearl type you decide to purchase, you can rest assured that your pearls will be hand-selected with an eye towards bright luster, clean surfaces and precision matching, so that every necklace, pair of earrings, pendants, bracelets or rings are made with meticulous care.

When shopping for the best pearl jewelry, several KEY factors should be considered. These are called the 7 Value Factors; pearl specialists use these Value Factors to evaluate pearls, and determine where on the grading scale a pearl should be placed.

Luster is the most important characteristic, as it determines how brilliantly the pearl reflects light. High-quality pearls will feature a radiant glow with bright light return and a high rate of reflectivity in their surfaces. Lower-grade pearls may appear dull or chalky, lifeless. At Pearls of Joy, we recognize the Luster is the most important attribute a pearl can possess, so we select pearls only within the top 10% of each harvest to ensure your pearl jewelry is both lustrous and valuable.  Read More: Pearl Luster 101

Surface Quality is another critical aspect—fewer blemishes indicate a more valuable pearl. However, it’s important to remember that pearls are an organic gemstone – literally the result of an natural process in which the host mollusk slowly creates a pearl over time by coating an irritant or manmade nucleus with nacre. As such, all pearls will feature some of Mother Nature’s “fingerprints” on her creation; expect to see some imperfections on any pearl – natural or cultured – even if it’s only noticeable under a microscope! The less inclusions a pearl has, the better … but it’s helpful to keep in mind that purchasing the best pearls you can often involves striking a balance between all the Value Factors and your budget. For that reason, Pearls of Joy offers pearls in the AAA-AAAA Quality grades for pearl shoppers, which allows for some blemishes, while still offering pearls that feature clean front-facing surfaces, high luster and excellent value. Read More: The Official Pearl Grading Guide

Shape, color, and size also contribute to a pearl's quality. While perfectly round pearls are the most desirable and rare, baroque and oval-shaped pearls can offer unique charm, with smooth drop-shaped pearls being considered the most romantic. Read More: Guide to Pearl Shapes

Colors range from classic white and cream to exotic black and gold to even pink, peach and lavender and even royal purple ...  There is a veritable rainbow of colors to choose from! Pearls of Joy also offers dyed, color-treated black Freshwater pearls which display an attractive “peacock” coloration to provide a budget-friendly alternative to naturally colored Tahitian pearls from French Polynesia. Read More: Guide to Pearl Colors

Pearl Size is the last Value Factor that should be considered. With all other factors being equal, larger pearls tend to be rarer and more valuable, especially in the case of South Sea and Tahitian pearls, however when faced with budgetary limitations, we always recommend shoppers step down in size in order to step up in pearl quality and higher luster. Of course, some people will go for size over all other factors, which is a personal preference, but we will always err on the side of higher quality luster, surface quality, shape and fine color over size. Read More: Pearl Size Guide 

For those looking to choose the very best pearls within each type, understanding the grading system is essential. Cultured pearls are graded using either the A-AAAA or A-AAA systems.

Japanese Akoya and Hanadama pearls typically use the A-AAA system (also known as the Japanese Grading System), with AAA representing the highest quality, characterized by near-flawless surfaces, perfectly round shapes and mirror-like luster.

Hanadama pearls, a subset of top-tier Akoya pearls, undergo additional certification for exceptional luster and quality. All Hanadama Akoya pearls are chosen from the AAA quality pearl harvests and are set aside as having the highest luster, thickest nacre and most beautiful surface quality. These pearls are then sent to the Pearl Science Laboratory of Tokyo, Japan for independent testing and certification to qualify as “Hanadama” quality. Each pair of Hanadama pearl earrings or a Hanadama pearl necklace is individually certified and comes with its own numbered certificate from the PSL.

South Sea, Tahitian, and Freshwater pearls are often graded using the A-AAAA scale. AAAA pearls have the highest luster, near-perfect surfaces, and round symmetry of shape. When shopping for the best pearls, a layman should prioritize luster, ensuring that the pearl reflects light crisply. Checking for minimal blemishes, even beautiful and saturated coloration, and ideal shape is also crucial. Reputable jewelers and certifications help guarantee authenticity and quality, making it easier for buyers to select the best pearls confidently.

For those looking for an investment, Akoya or South Sea pearls provide enduring value and timeless appeal. If you seek affordability without sacrificing beauty, Freshwater pearls offer a cost-effective alternative with plenty of variety.

Choosing the best pearl depends on personal style, budget, and the occasion for which it is intended. With several pearl varieties available—Akoya, Tahitian, Freshwater, White South Sea, and Golden South Sea—each type offers unique qualities that make it the best choice for different individuals. Whether seeking a classic, everyday pearl or a rare, luxurious statement piece, understanding the characteristics of each pearl type helps buyers make an informed decision.

A single-strand Akoya necklace is a classic choice for formal events, offers a refined and elegant look. With their perfectly round, classic and refined white colors, the Akoya pearl from Japan are the “ideal” white pearl composing the vast majority of first time pearl jewelry purchases.

At Pearls of Joy, we recommend sticking with pearl necklaces and pearl earrings ranging from 6.0-6.5mm through 8.0-8.5mm for a first pearl jewelry purchase. This range of sizes is both versatile and moderate, and covers a large age and occasion range, spanning from “first pearls” gifts to more sophisticated events like weddings, anniversaries and birthdays, and can be worn almost anywhere and look elegant and absolutely timeless in beauty.

Akoya pearl jewelry can range anywhere from $150 for a pair of small pearl earrings, to $10,000 or more for a premium and rare strand of pearls; the average price hovers around $300 to $5,000 for the most popular sizes and designs, which measures in the 7.0mm to 8.0mm range.

Tahitian pearls, with their exotic dark hues, make a striking statement with iridescent, colorful necklaces, unique bracelets or pendants and earrings, ideal for stylish evening wear. Tahitian pearls are the best pearl type to buy for shoppers who already have the classic white pearl jewelry basics and are looking to expand their jewelry wardrobe into styles that stand out more and offer something very different from the more traditional pearl jewelry.

Originating from the warm waters of French Polynesia, Tahitian pearls are renowned for their naturally dark body colors and colorful range of overtones, ranging from the famous and coveted peacock to gorgeous shades of green, blue, aubergine, and silver/steel. Their mysterious and captivating colors set them apart as one of the most sought-after luxury pearls in the world.

Tahitian pearls typically range in size from 8.0mm to an impressive 15.0mm, making them a fantastic option for those who prefer larger statement pieces. These pearls are ideal for high-fashion looks, business attire, and red-carpet-worthy ensembles. While single-strand necklaces and simple stud earrings showcase their elegance, Tahitian pearls are also popular in contemporary, bold designs like chunky baroque strands or mixed-metal settings.

Prices vary depending on size, shape, and luster, starting at around $250 for a pair of earrings and reaching $20,000 or more for an exceptional, perfectly matched strand. The most popular Tahitian pearl jewelry typically falls within the $800 to $6,000 range, offering a luxurious and exotic choice for pearl lovers.

White South Sea pearls are the epitome of luxury and sophistication, making them a top choice for collectors and those seeking the finest pearls available. Cultivated primarily in Australia and Indonesia, these pearls are admired for their large sizes, thick nacre, and soft, satiny glow. Unlike the smaller, high-luster Akoya pearls, White South Sea pearls have a more subtle, elegant shimmer, exuding an understated opulence.

Ranging in size from 9.0mm to 16.0mm or larger, White South Sea pearls are perfect for those who appreciate grand, statement-making jewelry. Their stunning white and silver hues complement evening gowns, formal wear, and milestone celebrations such as weddings and anniversaries. A single White South Sea pearl pendant or a strand of these rare gems is a timeless investment.

Due to their rarity, these pearls come with a premium price tag, with earrings starting at around $600 and exquisite pearl necklaces reaching upwards of $50,000. The most popular White South Sea pearl jewelry typically falls between $2,500 and $15,000, making them an enduring choice for those who desire the finest pearls the ocean has to offer.

For those drawn to warmth, radiance, and ultimate luxury, Golden South Sea pearls are among the most coveted pearls in the world. Sourced mainly from the Philippines and Indonesia, these pearls feature natural golden hues, ranging from pale champagne to deep, rich 24-karat gold. Their large sizes and luminous glow make them a striking choice for those who appreciate rare and opulent jewelry.

Golden South Sea pearls range in size from 9.0mm to an astounding 17.0mm, with larger pearls being especially rare and valuable. They are often worn in elegant statement pieces, such as a luminous golden necklace, a bold cocktail ring, or stunning drop earrings. These pearls pair beautifully with warm skin tones and gold jewelry, making them an excellent choice for glamorous evening wear and luxury gifts.

Due to their scarcity, Golden South Sea pearls command some of the highest prices in the pearl world, with earrings starting at approximately $700 and exquisite strands reaching $100,000 or more. Most high-quality Golden South Sea pearl jewelry falls within the $3,000 to $20,000 range, making them an extravagant yet worthwhile investment for those seeking the pinnacle of pearl elegance.

For those looking for beauty and affordability without sacrificing quality, Freshwater pearls are one of the best pearls to buy. Cultivated in China, these pearls offer an extensive range of colors, including classic white, soft pink, lavender, and peach tones. Unlike Akoya pearls, which are typically perfectly round, Freshwater pearls come in various shapes, including oval, baroque, and near-round, adding to their unique charm. Their soft, satiny luster makes them an excellent everyday jewelry choice.

Freshwater pearls usually range from 5.0mm to 12.0mm, with larger, rarer pearls reaching 15.0mm or more. They are particularly popular for “first pearl” gifts, young women’s jewelry, or trendy fashion pieces. Whether it’s a simple pearl pendant, a strand of delicate white pearls, or a colorful pearl bracelet, Freshwater pearls are versatile and accessible. Prices are budget-friendly, starting as low as $50 for a dainty pearl bracelet and reaching around $3,000 for a high-quality, large pearl strand. The most common price range falls between $150 and $800, making Freshwater pearls a fantastic option for those who want beautiful, genuine pearls without a high-end price tag.

Ultimately, the best pearl depends on individual preferences and needs. Akoya pearls offer classic sophistication, Tahitian pearls provide bold luxury, Freshwater pearls present affordability and variety, and South Sea pearls epitomize grandeur and exclusivity.

Each pearl type has its own unique charm, ensuring that there is a perfect pearl for every buyer. By understanding the qualities of each variety, pearl lovers can confidently choose the right pearl from Pearls of Joy to match their style, occasion, and budget.

📢 Read More: Freshwater vs. Saltwater Pearls

Pearl necklaces come in a variety of styles, each offering a unique aesthetic to suit every style and occasion.

The classic single-strand necklace, often made with Akoya or Freshwater pearls, is a timeless strand of pearls that pairs beautifully with both casual and formal attire.

The most popular pearl necklaces that Pearls of Joy offers are the Japanese Akoya pearl necklace measuring 7.0-7.5mm in the 18-inch princess length, and the white Freshwater pearl necklace, 7.0-8.0mm, also 18-inches in length.

Double-strand and opera-length necklaces exude elegance and glamour, making them ideal for special occasions. Triple-strand pearl necklaces are ideal for making a luxurious statement. Look for necklaces with excellent matching throughout each strand and is finished with a secure 14K gold clasp that blends well with the pearls and is easy to use.

For a contemporary twist, long rope necklaces and mixed pearl styles add a modern edge to traditional pearl jewelry. When choosing the best pearl necklace, consider the size and length that best complements your face shape and wardrobe. Shorter necklaces, such as chokers, highlight the neckline, while longer strands create a dramatic effect.

📢 Read More: Official Guide to Pearl Necklace Lengths

The best pearl jewelry goes beyond necklaces—earrings, bracelets, and rings all add elegance to any collection.

The classic and versatile single strand white pearl necklace is the most obvious go-to purchase for most first time pearl buyers. Consider the Japanese Akoya or white Freshwater pearl types as the most popular and beloved choices.

Pearl stud earrings are a staple for any jewelry lover, offering quiet sophistication to any outfit. The timeless pearl stud exudes a refined, yet reserved statement of elegance for everyone who wears them. Dangle pearl earrings provide a touch of drama, perfect for office and evening wear.

Pearl bracelets and pearl rings add a refined charm to any outfit. Whether you choose classic white pearls or exotic black pearls, investing in high-quality pearl jewelry ensures timeless elegance that lasts a lifetime.

Pearl earrings come in a variety of styles to suit different face shapes and preferences. Classic pearl studs, often made with Akoya or Freshwater pearls, are versatile and ideal for daily wear. Drop and dangle earrings elongate the face, making them a flattering choice for round or square face shapes.

Hoop and chandelier pearl earrings offer a statement-making appeal, ideal for special occasions. When choosing the best pearl earrings, consider the size and luster of the pearls, ensuring they enhance your natural features while complementing your overall style.

📢 Read More: How To Buy Pearl Earrings

Finding the best place to buy pearls requires careful consideration of authenticity and reputation. Buying pearls online offers a wide selection, competitive prices, and convenience. However, it's crucial to purchase from reputable retailers with transparent grading systems and guaranteed return policies.

For those who prefer an in-store experience, high-end jewelers and specialty pearl boutiques like Mikimoto's or Tiffany & Co., provide expert guidance and hands-on inspection - along with the brand name price tags! While the quality and craftsmanship of brand name pearl jewelry is unquestioned, buyers should be aware of a lack of customization, higher than average prices and limited choice when it comes to buying pearl jewelry.

Pearls of Joy has been a verified, reputable dealer in cultured pearl jewelry for over 20 years. By sourcing our pearls direct from the pearl farms and auctions overseas, we miss out on layers of middleman markups, keeping our prices low for our valued customers. Our 100-Day Return and Exchange Policy means that you can buy luxury pearl jewelry online with total confidence! All of our pearl jewelry is created to order, tailor made to your expectations, bringing you handcrafted pearl jewelry made to become a lasting part of your love story.

If you're looking for the best value pearls, Freshwater pearls offer excellent affordability without compromising beauty. These pearls provide a cost-effective option for everyday jewelry while still maintaining a high level of elegance.

For those seeking investment-grade pearls, Akoya and South Sea pearls hold their value over time. Understanding the balance between price and quality ensures you make a smart purchase that aligns with your budget and style.

📢 Read More: Where To Buy Pearls

Selecting the best pearls comes down to quality, personal preference, and budget. Whether you're drawn to the timeless beauty of Akoya pearls, the exotic appeal of Tahitian pearls, or the luxurious charm of South Sea pearls, there is a perfect pearl for everyone.

By understanding what makes a pearl high quality and where to buy from trusted sources, you can confidently invest in pearl jewelry that brings lasting elegance and value. At Pearls of Joy, we give you the room to explore all the different pearl types, compare quality factors, and choose pearls that resonate with your unique style and needs.

When you choose Pearls of Joy, no matter which pearls you decide to buy, we're here to provide you with a top-notch Pearl Education, a rock solid purchase and return guarantee and knowledgeable customer service help to ensure that you only purchase the best pearl jewelry for you and your family. For your Love Story, no matter how it's made.

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