"OVER THE RAINBOW"
The rain is coming down in buckets, perfect weather to hunker down and sort pearls. I started the day in front of a tray brimming with loose metallics and got to work matching pairs.
This year I've been getting a lot of requests for pearls with deep purple coloration, so I made a point to select a number of purple pairs, as well as the ever popular whites and "fancy color" pearls ....
Every day we receive questions from customers all over the world about pearls. We decided to post our answers here for every one to read!
All of a sudden you realize: Should I Buy Freshwater or the Akoya pearls?!
It’s an almost agonizing question, and one that can be difficult to answer. No one wants to have their options limited but we also don’t want to spend the next year figuring it out!
So this blog post is geared towards answering this age-old issue.
Freshwater and Akoya pearls are two of the most popular types of cultured pearls, but they have distinct differences in origin, luster, size, and overall appearance.
Freshwater pearls are primarily cultivated in mussels found in lakes and rivers, mainly in China. They tend to have a softer, more satiny luster and come in a variety of natural pastel shades, including white, pink, peach, and lavender.
Akoya pearls, on the other hand, are saltwater pearls cultivated in Japan and China, and they are renowned for their brilliant, mirror-like luster and perfectly round shapes. These pearls are typically white with overtones of rose, silver, or cream, making them a classic choice for fine jewelry.
One of the biggest distinctions between the two pearl types is their shape and nacre composition. Freshwater pearls are often slightly off-round or oval, with a thicker nacre due to their solid nacre composition. This makes them more durable and resistant to chipping or peeling over time. Akoya pearls, however, are almost always perfectly round, as they are nucleated with a small bead that ensures their symmetry. Their thinner nacre gives them an intensely sharp, reflective luster that is unmatched by most Freshwater pearls. While Freshwater pearls can achieve near-round shapes, they do not have the same high-gloss shine that makes Akoya pearls so desirable.
When choosing between Freshwater and Akoya pearls, consider your personal style, budget, and intended use. Freshwater pearls are more affordable and offer a wider range of natural colors, making them an excellent choice for those looking for everyday elegance or unique, colorful pieces.
Akoya pearls, while typically more expensive, exude timeless sophistication and are often preferred for formal occasions, bridal jewelry, or classic pearl strands. If you’re seeking a refined, high-luster pearl necklace that mirrors the luxurious look of traditional pearls, Akoya pearls are the superior choice.
However, if you prefer a more modern, organic aesthetic or are shopping on a budget, Freshwater pearls provide excellent value without sacrificing beauty.
Ultimately, the right pearl for you depends on your priorities. If you value classic beauty, high luster, and perfectly round pearls, Akoya pearls are an investment in elegance and tradition. If you prefer versatility, durability, and a softer, more natural glow, Freshwater pearls are an ideal choice. Whether you choose Akoya or Freshwater, both pearl types offer timeless beauty and can elevate any jewelry collection with their unique charm.
This exquisite piece of jewelry showcases an 7.0-7.5mm AA+ quality white Akoya cultured pearl, elegantly mounted on the finest 14K gold. The soft luster of the pearl, combined with its sophisticated design, makes it an ideal accessory for any occasion. With an approximate height of 1 inch, this pendant is not just a piece of jewelry; it's a statement of elegance and timeless beauty.
The stunning Akoya pearls featured in this pendant are sourced from Japan, renowned for their traditional farming methods and high-quality production. Japanese Akoya pearls are cultivated in cold waters, allowing for thicker nacre formation compared to their Chinese counterparts. The primary regions instrumental in producing these exquisite pearls include the Seto Inland Sea and the coastline of Honshu. Japanese farmers take great care in their practices, emphasizing environmental stewardship and sustainability. For more insights into choosing the right Akoya pearls, check out our Akoya Pearl Buying Guide.
At our brand, we believe in delivering quality and craftsmanship akin to luxury brands, but at a fraction of the price thanks to our direct-to-consumer model. We stand by our products, offering a 100-day free returns policy to ensure your complete satisfaction. Experience the elegance of fine pearls without compromising on quality or value. Discover more by browsing our extensive collections, including Akoya pearls, Akoya Necklaces, Akoya Earrings, Akoya Rings, and Akoya Pendants.
