PEARL TYPES:
Want to know a little more about pearls and pearl types before making a purchase? The ultimate education tool for pearl types. Learn about the many variations and options available to you, in an easy to read chart.

TAHITIAN SOUTH SEA
We cherish Tahitian pearls for their incredibly exotic colors and mirror-like luster. Although they are known as ” Black Pearls,” Tahitian pearls actually consist of the widest spectrum of exotic colors. Colors such as peacock green, silver green, blue, and eggplant colors just to name a few. These pearls are produced by the Pinctada Margaritifera oyster, which is found exclusively in Tahiti and several other French Polynesian islands.

WHITE & GOLDEN SOUTH SEA
South Sea pearls are the most valuable and cherished pearls found today. These pearls are produced by the silver or golden lipped oyster, known scientifically as the Pinctada maxima oyster, which is found on the shores of Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Both golden & White South Sea pearls are both rare and difficult to find in most jewelry stores, especially in higher qualities.

JAPANESE AKOYA
Known as the “icon” of cultured pearls. Akoya pearls have graced the necks, ears, fingers, and wrists of women for decades. Our Akoya pearls are imported from the salt waters of Japan, grown in the Pinctada Fucata oyster. We make all of our Akoya pearl necklaces on site with careful attention to detail, allowing us to create truly beautiful Akoya pearl necklaces and jewelry.

FRESHWATER
These pearls are typically found in lakes and rivers in China and are produced in mollusks called mussels. Freshwater pearls have recently revolutionized the pearl industry. They produce beautiful and lustrous natural white and pink pearls at a price therefor that is a fraction of Akoya and smaller sized south sea pearls. Although freshwater pearls are plentiful, The Pearl Source selects only the highest quality freshwater to compile our strands and jewelry.

Infographics by Pearl Types