Akoya Pearls

The Akoya-producing oyster species (Pinctada fucata, Pinctada imbricate) are widespread but the most lustrous pearls are still grown in the cool waters of Japan.Only 1 out 10 is good enough to be an Imperial Cultured Pearl.

Lustre

Many experts believe that Akoya pearls have the highest luster of all cultured pearls and this has to do with their nacre coating.The Japanese waters where these pearls grow are considerably cooler than the warmer climates where other pearls are grown.The cool conditions cause Akoya pearls to develop their nacre coating slower with a more compact crystal structure (increasing reflective and refractive qualities).

Surface

Akoya pearls are typically clean and generally free of heavy blemishes.This is a result of their comparatively short cultivation time and the strict quality standards Japanese are subject to.

Shape

Akoya harvests produce a consistent quantity of round and near-round pearls.This is the largest percentage of this shape of all pearl types.Although the harvest still does produce a small amount of other shapes like baroques and semi-baroques.

Color

Akoya cultured pearls come in a range of colors from silvery/white to gold and even blue/grey.

Size

The Akoya shell is the smallest of all the pearl shells and rarely produces a 9mm or larger Pearl.Akoya pearls range in size from 1mm to 10mm more commonly 5mm to 8mm.

Matching

Akoya strands excel in matching due to the fact they are mostly sold as strands directly from Japan where the pearl sorters originate.Also, the Akoya oysters produce a high percentage of round and near-round pearls allowing for easier matching.

Akoya Jewelry