American Pearl · Pearl Guide
In short: Japanese Akoya pearls are saltwater pearls known for round shape and a sharp, mirror-like luster; freshwater pearls are grown in mussels, come in more shapes and natural colors, and cost less. Choose Akoya for the classic bright white strand and freshwater for value and variety.
Pearls-Akoya versus freshwater pearls
Without doubt, the pearls from Japan are the finest quality pearls in the world. In fact, the reason why Japanese Akoya Cultured Saltwater pearls are so beautiful is becuase of their incredible luster.
For over 100 years, the pearl farmers of Japan have been refining and perfecting the process of cultivation in order to produce the finest quality Japanese Akoya Cultured Pearls. In fact, no other pearls in the world can compare to the sharp reflections and high luster of pearls from Japan.
American Pearl advises to always purchase the finest quality cultured pearls in your price range. Finer quality pearls have the best chance of appreciating in value and are most value. After all, it is the beauty of pearls or any other jewelry for that matter which is why people are drawn to them in the first place. Beauty is the magical characteristic of jewelry that makes them valuable. Take a way a gem's beauty and you take away its value.
As such, it is wisest to purchase the finest quality in your price range. Not only are finer quality pearls more durable, but they will be enjoyed the most.
For over 100 years, the pearl farmers of Japan have been refining and perfecting the process of cultivation in order to produce the finest quality Japanese Akoya Cultured Pearls. In fact, no other pearls in the world can compare to the sharp reflections and high luster of pearls from Japan.
American Pearl advises to always purchase the finest quality cultured pearls in your price range. Finer quality pearls have the best chance of appreciating in value and are most value. After all, it is the beauty of pearls or any other jewelry for that matter which is why people are drawn to them in the first place. Beauty is the magical characteristic of jewelry that makes them valuable. Take a way a gem's beauty and you take away its value.
As such, it is wisest to purchase the finest quality in your price range. Not only are finer quality pearls more durable, but they will be enjoyed the most.
Common Questions
Are Akoya pearls better than freshwater pearls?
For the classic look, yes, Akoya pearls are better than freshwater pearls: they are rounder with a brighter luster. Freshwater pearls are a strong value and offer pastel colors and baroque shapes Akoya cannot.
Why are Akoya pearls more expensive?
Akoya pearls are more expensive because Akoya oysters produce one or two pearls at a time and few reach top quality, while a freshwater mussel can produce dozens, so freshwater supply is much larger.
How can you tell Akoya from freshwater pearls?
To tell Akoya from freshwater pearls, look at shape and reflection: Akoya pearls are usually perfectly round with a crisp reflection; freshwater pearls tend to be slightly off-round with a softer, satiny glow.
