Akoya Pearls: Characteristics and Use

Akoya pearls are saltwater pearls, historically found in the cold waters of the Sea of ​​Japan but also cultivated in countries such as China and Vietnam.

You have certainly had the opportunity to admire Akoya pearls in person many times: in jewelry store windows, worn by models in fashion shows or even among your jewelry. In fact, it is a type of pearl that is widely used to make bracelets, earrings or pearl sets.

But what are its peculiarities? Let's find out together in today's article Akoya Pearls: characteristics and use .

The Pearl Families

Pearl families are divided into two macro categories: freshwater pearls, which are more commercial and affordable, and saltwater pearls , a category of which Akoya pearls are a part.

This group also includes the exotic Polynesian pearls and the large and precious white South Sea pearls , which we have discussed in a dedicated article . The above-mentioned pearls, together with the Akoya, represent the most used types of saltwater pearls in jewelry.

The white gold and pearl necklace by Miluna is an example of Made in Italy composed of a Venetian chain with Akoya Pure Special Selection cultured pearl, a choice of Akoya pearls of the finest quality, carefully selected.

What is meant by Akoya pearls?

Akoya pearls owe their name to the type of oyster, the Pinctada fucata martensii , originally from Japan and characterised by a mother-of-pearl that is generally white, cream or pink in colour.

This is a specimen appreciated for its soft delicacy , rarer than its freshwater “relative”. In this case, in fact, the quantity produced for each oyster is drastically reduced.

Thanks to the cultivation technique discovered by Kokichi Mikimoto at the end of the 19th century, however, the cost of Akoya pearls has dropped and, over the years, they have become no longer a prerogative of the wealthiest classes but an emblem of universally accessible beauty.

Prized for their unmistakable luster, Akoya pearls offer a graceful setting for women of all ages and young brides . However, tradition warns: it is better not to receive pearls as gifts on this occasion. To show them off in all their purity and elegance at the wedding, choose a family jewel or buy them yourself.

Pearls have always been a symbol of class and recently they have come back into fashion more than ever, becoming a must for men too !

Are you curious to know what other 100% gender fluid jewels you can't do without? Find out in this article .

The peculiarity of Akoya pearls

Typically round in shape, Akoya pearls measure from 2 to a maximum of 10 mm. Their surface is smooth and shiny and their color can change, taking on shades that vary from white to cream, passing through pink but not only: it is possible to find them, for example, in silver, ivory or champagne tones.

What are the most valuable Akoya pearls and how to recognize them?

To ensure the qualitative excellence of Akoya pearls, it is necessary to follow a precise selection standard. The main characteristics that the ideal Akoya pearl must possess are:

• thickness of the nacre , or mother-of-pearl; the substance secreted by the oyster must be sufficiently extensive so as not to allow the nucleus of the pearl to be seen;
• Luster, purity and uniformity : the greater the luster and uniformity of the pearl and the lower its degree of impurities, the higher its overall quality will be;
• Color : the Akoya pearl can take on various shades of neutral tones. The particular combination of predominant color and surface shades (oriental) can make our pearl even more particular and sought-after;
• Size : The average size of the Akoya pearl is around 7/8 mm in diameter each;
• Shape : the most appreciated shape is undoubtedly the spherical one, roundness that is often associated with a higher market value. However, the Akoya pearl can also appear in the shape of an oval or a drop.

Features and use in 2023

Akoya pearls, thanks to their bright and brilliant luster, are a symbol of sublime beauty and prosperity . Suitable for enriching both everyday and more sophisticated looks, they are back in the spotlight to embellish our style in 2023.

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