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The pearl types we are concerned with here are: Akoya, Freshwater, Tahitian and South Sea.
Some characteristcs of the pearl types.
Akoya Pearls: Generally speaking whenever we think of pearls, what comes to mind are Akoya Pearls. Akoya Pearls are lustrous, white round pearls.Of the Akoyas the finest are more perfectly round than most other pearls. Another trait of Akoya Pearls, is that they have the highest luster, this makes them very desireable. The only drawback is to those who love large pearls, for Akoya Pearlsrarely exceed 10mm in diameter. If one was able to find larger ones, the price would be astronomical. While Japan is the original producer of Akoya Pearls, and still do produce them. China is now producing a large share of Akoyas. Japan however, is the only one producing 8mm and larger Akoyas.
Freshwater Pearls: Cultured from a mussel that is larger than the Akoya Oyster. Freshwater pearls are generally small, and elongated, for a long time they were called rice krispies because of their shape, and were very inexpensive. The look of Freshwater pearls is changing. Round Freshwater Pearls are being produced now. And are available in 7-9mm sizes. China produces most of the Freshwater Pearls. Freshwater Pearls are available in a large assortment of natural and dyed colors ranging from light to dark orange, lavender, rose, gray and black.
Tahitian Pearls: Technically a "South Sea" Pearl, Tahitians are mostly known for their black colors, which can range from black to gray. Large diameter pearls are the norm, and the average is around 11 to 12mm, and going all the way to 20mm (over 3/4") in diameter. With a base color of dark gray to black, these pearls have what is known as a radiance resembling the herl of a peacock, almost irridescent, shades of green to purple to reds. A very expensive pearl, it is not to be confused with artificially colored black pearls.
South Sea Pearls: Often called the "Queen" of pearls, the South Sea Pearl is the royalty of pearls. A very large pearl. sizes going from 11 to 14mm for an average, and sizes of 16mm being available. South Sea Pearls colors can go from a highly lustrous silvery white, to a less desireable yellow white, and finally to a deep gold color which is becoming very popular. South Sea Pearls are allowed to grow for longer times and therefore have a much thicker nacre than others. This thicker nacre means that they would make a perfect heirloom, to last for ages.
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