Tahitian pearls are cultured seawater pearls produced by the black lipped pearl oyster, and they are unlike any other pearls in the world. The color palette ranges from dark charcoal to silver to peacock green, creating a beauty that is both mysterious and sophisticated. Their distinctive colors develop naturally through the oyster's nacre producing process Most Tahitian pearls are bead nucleated, which means a tiny round bead nucleus is inserted into the oyster. Cultivation time commonly takes place between 18-24 months for the pearl to develop.

Despite their name, Tahitian pearls are not exclusively farmed on the island of Tahiti. The pearl farms are primarily located in the blue lagoons of Tuamotu-Gambier Archipelagos of greater French Polynesia. Tahitian pearls are also the largest exports of the island chains, accounting for roughly half of its annual GDP. Mikimoto bought one of the first harvests of Tahitian pearls in 1970s and has since been exported across the world.

Color is arguably the most fascinating characteristic of Tahitian pearls. Their beauty is not simply determined by how dark they are, but also by how it interacts with several visual elements. Tahitian pearls are the only pearls that comes in an array of colors. Bodycolor is the dominant overall color of the pearl, which are commonly gray, silver, and dark charcoal. When placed under direct sunlight, you will often see an overtone. Overtone is the secondary translucent color that appears to lie over the bodycolor. Some common overtones may include green, blue, purple, or bronze. There is often a confusion between color and luster. Luster is the brightness and sharpness of light reflected from the pearl. A pearl could exude a beautiful bodycolor but weak luster, or vice-versa. Having either one feature does not discredit the pearl being beautiful, that is what makes each pearl unique. The most desirable Tahitian pearls combine attractive colors with strong luster and pleasing overall appearance.

Not all pearls are perfectly round, and that is what makes them an affordable conversation piece. Round: Symmetrical pearls prized for their classic appearance and relative rarity. Near-round: Pearls that appear round at a glance but show subtle natural variations. Oval and Teardrop: Teardrop or raindrop shaped pearls that create graceful shapes and flow in necklaces and earrings. Button: Slightly flattened pearls on one side, often used in earrings. They are also called mabé pearls. Baroque: Irregularly shaped pearls with expressive curves, contours, and individual character. At Abby Chu, we are especially drawn to pearls whose shapes become part of the design itself. A gentle curve, and a beautiful asymmetry can inspire an entire piece of jewelry.

1. Luster: Luster describes how light reflects from the pearl's surface. Fine pearls have bright, lively reflections that give them depth and radiance. A pearl with poor luster may appear dull or chalky. 2. Surface Quality Most pearls have some natural surface characteristics. Small spots, ridges, and other variations are common. What matters is their visibility, severity, and effect on the pearl's beauty and durability. 3. Shape Round pearls generally command higher value when other quality factors are equal. However, beautifully proportioned baroque pearls can be equally desirable for contemporary jewelry. 4. Color Look for appealing, consistent color and attractive overtones. Natural color variations can be part of the pearl's character. Faux pearls do not exude color variations. 5. Nacre Quality Nacre contributes to the pearl's luster and durability. High-quality nacre creates a rich and luminous appearance rather than a thin or chalky surface. For jewelry containing multiple pearls, also consider how thoughtfully their sizes, colors, shapes, and luster have been matched, or intentionally contrasted.

One oyster could yield up to 30 pearls at a time, compared to its seawater pearl counterparts. This greater availability helps make freshwater pearls readily accessible across a broad range of prices. Once in a while, exceptional freshwater pearls with beautiful luster, round shapes, and clean surfaces can be found in the batch and they would more valuable. Freshwater pearls tend to be more affordable, but a pearl's quality matters more than its category alone.

From a corporate office to a casual shopping day, a simple freshwater earring, necklace, bracelet, or a combination of all three, is a subtle appreciation to the class and elegance of pearl jewelry. The timeless appeal of pearls is a perfect excuse to put them on regardless of occasion or outfit.