Akoya Pearls
Primarily cultivated in the ocean waters off the coasts of Japan and China, Akoya are the most famous of all pearl producing oysters. Akoya yield saltwater pearls that are known for their intense luster, beautiful color, stunning overtones and exquisite roundness.
Because of the exquisite roundness and consistent color of the Akoya pearls, they are the most popular type of pearls for matching together to create beautiful necklaces and bracelets. While natural body colors include cream and white, natural overtones include green, yellow and rosé. As pearls with rosé overtones are the most rare, they are considered the most desirable and valuable.
Akoya pearls are remarkably difficult to culture, which contributes to the powerful allure of this gem as well as its consistently high market value. The Akoya oyster rarely produces more than two pearls with a higher mortality rate for the oyster itself. Additionally, the Akoya oyster is the smallest of all pearl producing oysters.