Japanese Akoya Saltwater Cultured Pearl Studs

What do we mean by ‘Saltwater Cultured Pearls’?  We use this term to describe pearls that are grown commercially in Oysters in Seawater typically in the coastal waters of Japan (saltwater cultured pearls are also grown off the coasts of Vietnam and China).  The pearls that we stock are from Japan and the colour of our pearls is natural – that is to say that the colour has not been altered by pigmentation. The term ‘cultured’ can also be used to describe pearls grown in mussels in rivers in China.  These pearls are often slightly ‘off round’ in shape and lack the deep lustre of ‘Saltwater Cultured Pearls’.  They take less time to grow and are cheaper to produce which is why they cost less. We stock a small number of these pearls as studs but they are not featured here. We also keep a selection of naturally coloured Tahitian ‘Saltwater Cultured Pearls’ which come from French Polynesia – these are quite large and are in attractive hues of grey and silver with hints of green and purple.  These have been photographed individually and are included here. Our stock is always changing and we can also source specific pearls for you if you have specific requirements.  Just get in touch and we’ll do all we can to assist you.