The different types of pearls in our jewellery

Freshwater, saltwater, Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea - the types of pearls in the world are endless, but what sets each one apart? And more importantly, which is the best pearl for you? For pearl pupils looking to become masters, we’ve put together this guide to walk you through the different types of pearls, where they come from, and the unique characteristics of each one.

What is a pearl and where do they come from?

A pearl is a hard, glistening gemstone that is produced within the soft tissue of an oyster or mussel. When an irritant such as sand enters the mollusk’s muscle, it begins to secrete layers of nacre around it which, over long periods of time, gradually forms a pearl. These are known as ‘natural’ pearls.

Cultured pearls, on the other hand, are formed due to human intervention. Farmers raise the mollusk and insert the irritant into the oyster or mussel by hand, not only making the process much quicker, but making a pearl far more likely to form. Cultured pearls, on the other hand, are formed due to human intervention. Farmers raise the mollusk and insert the irritant into the oyster or mussel by hand, not only making the process much quicker, but making a pearl far more likely to form.

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Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings

What is a freshwater pearl?

As the name suggests, freshwater pearls come from mussels that live in bodies of freshwater, usually lakes and rivers in China. Its sister style, saltwater pearls, are created by oysters that come from oceans in places such as Thailand, Tahiti and Australia. As the most common type of pearl used in jewellery, you can find freshwater pearls in a variety of shapes and colours across our range of pearl earrings.

Baroque Pearl Silver Earrings

Freshwater Pearl Necklace

What is a baroque pearl?

A baroque pearl simply means that the pearl has an irregular shape. Oval, asymmetrical, flat or bumpy, these pearls make one-of-a-kind pieces whether you choose a long pendant pearl necklace or dainty drop earrings.

‘Keshi pearls’ are a type of baroque pearl. These gems are free-forming as they often break away from the irritant that they are growing around and create their own unique and interesting shapes.

Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings

The different types of pearls

Akoya pearls

If the term ‘pearls’ brings to mind the image of a string of round, white and symmetrical spheres, then you’re thinking of the Akoya pearl. With a mirror-like lustre, these pearls are a traditional and timeless choice.

Tahitian pearls

Formed in black-lip oysters in the French Polynesia, around Tahiti, the Tahitian pearl typically has a darker, almost black colour. However, when you look closer, you’ll see blues, greens and iridescent purples shimmering over the surface.

South Sea pearls

South sea pearls are the largest type of cultured pearls and are grown over 2 to 3 years, making them one of the more expensive pearl types. Similarly to the Akoya pearl, the South Sea is round and symmetrical in shape with a deep, silky lustre. However, these pearls not only come in white, but in a beautiful gold tone too.

Faux pearls

Faux pearls, or imitation pearls, are man-made to resemble the shape of a real pearl. Usually made from glass or plastic, these pearls are an affordable alternative to natural or cultured pearls and can be formed in a wide range of shapes and finishes.

Mother of Pearl Pendant Necklace

What is mother of pearl?

Often thought to be a type of pearl, mother of pearl is actually the thin layer of nacre found on the inner lining of the oyster shell. Its flat surfaces means it can be formed into pearl rings and pearl bracelets, as well as watches, cutlery or buttons. Unlike the white, gold or black finish of other pearls, mother of pearl has an iridescent gleam that shows a kaleidoscope of colours.