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Types of Pearls: A Complete Guide

At De Blancas, we specialize in offering only the finest quality pearls sourced from the world’s most renowned pearl farms. Pearls come in various types, each with unique origins, colors, and characteristics. Below, we classify the five main types of pearls based on their origin, price range, common sizes, and key features.

1. Freshwater Pearls

  • Origin: China

  • Price Range: Most affordable, $$

  • Common Sizes: 5mm - 12mm

  • Color Variations: White, pink, lavender, peach

  • Key Features:

    • Cultivated in freshwater lakes and rivers

    • Have a thicker nacre layer than Akoya pearls

    • Available in a variety of shapes (round, oval, baroque)

    • More accessible and budget-friendly

2. Akoya Pearls

  • Origin: Japan

  • Price Range: Moderate to high, $$$

  • Common Sizes: 6mm - 9mm

  • Color Variations: White with rose, silver, or cream overtones

  • Key Features:

    • Known for their high luster and perfectly round shape

    • Traditionally used for classic pearl strands

    • Smaller than South Sea and Tahitian pearls

    • Thin nacre, but very smooth and highly reflective

3. South Sea Gold Pearls

  • Origin: The Philippines, Indonesia

  • Price Range: High, $$$$

  • Common Sizes: 9mm - 16mm

  • Color Variations: Golden hues ranging from champagne to deep gold

  • Key Features:

    • Among the rarest and most valuable pearls

    • Large, thick nacre with soft, glowing luster

    • Cultivated in gold-lipped Pinctada maxima oysters

    • Symbol of luxury and elegance

4. South Sea White Pearls

  • Origin: Australia

  • Price Range: High, $$$$$

  • Common Sizes: 9mm - 18mm

  • Color Variations: White with silver or cream overtones

  • Key Features:

    • Largest pearls on the market

    • Exceptional luster with a satiny finish

    • Cultivated in white-lipped Pinctada maxima oysters

    • Rare and highly sought after by collectors

5. Tahitian Pearls

  • Origin: French Polynesia

  • Price Range: Moderate to high, $$$

  • Common Sizes: 8mm - 15mm

  • Color Variations: Black, peacock green, silver, blue, aubergine

  • Key Features:

    • Naturally dark-colored pearls

    • Unique overtones that shift under different lighting

    • Cultivated in black-lipped Pinctada margaritifera oysters

    • Often used in bold, statement jewelry pieces

Why Choose De Blancas Pearls?

At De Blancas, we source our pearls directly from our self-owned pearl farms in Indonesia and the Philippines, ensuring full control over the quality and ethical sourcing of every pearl. Our collection features only the finest pearls, selected for their exceptional beauty, luster, and craftsmanship.

Explore our collection today and discover the luxury of top-grade pearl Products with De Blancas

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