South Sea Pearls

The Beauty of White and Golden Pearls

About South Sea Pearls

Largest Cultured Pearl

South Sea pearls are cultured in the largest pearl oyster species, the Pinctada Maxima. This species of pearl oyster is susceptible to stress and disease, so they can only be farmed in a few areas of the South Sea. Compared to other pearls, their growing period is the longest. Unlike the Akoya, which only takes 1-2 years to develop, they take about 2-4 years to grow.

They come in two different colour varieties, which are white and gold. They have the thickest nacre compared to other pearls, as well as a strong lustre and soft, smooth surface. Each has its own overtone, shape and size. For this reason, the process of pearl matching is very challenging, especially when it comes to making necklaces.

Price of South Sea Pearl

Large oysters produce large pearls with only one pearl per harvest, which is why South Sea pearls are so valuable. In addition to size, there are other factors that determine the price of the pearl. A common size with fine quality South Sea necklace usually priced above $10k at retail, larger pearls higher price.

White South Sea Pearl

Origin

White South Sea pearls are produced by the Pinctada maxima, which is found in the waters around Indonesia, Australia and the Philippines. Indonesia is currently the major producer of white South Sea pearls, although Australia remains a significant supplier of these pearls, especially large pearls.

Australia is known for its strict quality standards for pearl exports, which help to ensure that only high quality pearls are legally exported from the country.

Size

The most common size range for white South Sea pearls is 9-13mm, produced mainly in Indonesia. Large pearls over 13mm are usually found in Australia, and the rare ones can grow beyond 20mm.

The size and shape of the pearl is influenced by the size and shape of the pearl sac within the oyster, as well as the type of nucleus (a small bead or piece of shell) used to stimulate the production of the pearl. It can take several years for a pearl to reach its full size and shape.

Colour

The white South Sea pearl is produced by the silver-lipped oyster Pinctada Maxima. Each pearl is unique and may display overtones of silver, pink, blue, or green. The Pinctada maxima oyster can be found in the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans and is capable of producing pearls in a range of colors, including white, silver, and gold.

Shape

Due to the thick nacre of the white South Sea pearl, it is relatively rare to find a perfectly round pearl. The most common shapes for these pearls are baroque, drop, oval, and button. The shape of a pearl is influenced by the shape of the nucleus and the shape of the pearl sac within the oyster, as well as the conditions in which the pearl is grown.

The final product is a unique and highly prized gemstone, and the shape of a pearl can vary widely, ranging from round to semi-round to off-round to baroque (irregularly shaped).

Golden South Sea Pearl

Origin

The majority of golden South Sea pearls are cultivated in the Philippines and Indonesia, followed by Myanmar. The Philippines is known for its intense golden pearls, while Myanmar is known for its lustrous cream or champagne coloured pearls with unique hues.

The golden South Sea pearl is produced by the Pinctada maxima oyster, which is found in the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Size

Similar to the white South Sea pearl, the average size of golden South Sea pearls is between 9-13mm, and pearls larger than 16mm are considered rare.

The size of a golden South Sea pearl depends on the size and shape of the pearl sac in the oyster and the type of nucleus that stimulates the production of the pearl. It takes several years for the pearl to reach its full size and shape.

Colour

The yellow-lipped oyster Pinctada Maxima produces yellow, cream, champagne or golden pearls. Each colour has its own unique beauty, but the most valuable is the natural deep gold, also known as 24k gold.

The colour of the pearl depends on the type of nucleus used to stimulate the production of the pearl, as well as the conditions in which the pearl is grown. Golden South Sea pearls are highly prized for their beautiful and unique colour and are often used in fine jewellery.

Shape

The shape of a golden South Sea pearl is determined by several factors, including the shape of the nucleus, the shape of the pearl sac within the oyster, and the conditions under which the pearl is cultured. The most commonly harvested shapes of these pearls are drop, oval, button and baroque. However, finding a perfectly round pearl is quite rare due to the thick nacre produced by the Pinctada maxima oyster.

White or Golden Pearl?

Which to Choose?

When choosing between white and golden South Sea pearls, it ultimately comes down to personal preference: Some people prefer the classic and timeless look of white pearls, while others may prefer the warmth and richness of golden pearls.

Ultimately, the colour you choose should be based on what you like and what suits your personal style. If you are looking for a pearl to wear as a statement piece, you may want to consider a bold colour such as gold or champagne. If you are looking for a pearl to wear as a more subtle accent, you may prefer a softer colour such as white or cream.

How to Choose?

It is also important to consider the quality and lustre of the pearls, as these factors can significantly affect the overall value and beauty of the pearl. When buying pearls, pay attention not only to the colour, but also to the size, shape and surface quality, as these factors can influence the overall value and beauty of the pearl.

What are the factors?

When shopping for pearls, it is important to consider the quality and lustre of the pearl, as these factors can significantly affect the overall value and beauty of the pearl. In general, pearls with high lustre and good quality are more valuable and desirable.

Read the pearl quality factors to understand more.

Pearl Quality Guide
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