What comes to your mind when you think of pearls? The classic, timeless gemstone is typically associated with luxury, class, and elegance.
Pearls are a type of gemstone developed from oysters and other mollusks. And within the pearl family, Akoya cultured pearls have always been a favorite among jewelry enthusiasts and collectors.
So what is it about these little gems that make them so unique? In this article, we will take a closer look at the color, price, benefits, and other interesting facts about Akoya cultured pearl gemstones.
You may be surprised at just how versatile these gems can be!
What are Akoya Cultured Pearls, and Where Do They Come From
When compiling a list of white gemstones, Akoya cultured pearls are among the first that come to mind for many shoppers. But what exactly are they, and where do they come from?
The Akoya oyster, which produces Akoya pearls, is native to the waters off the coast of Japan.
The Akoya oyster is a saltwater creature that thrives in the ocean. The type of water in which it lives has a massive impact on the quality of the pearls it produces. The best Akoya cultured pearls come from the cleanest and clearest waters, typically found in the cooler months of the year.
Japan is the dominant producer of Akoya cultured pearls, but China, South Korea, and Australia also farm them.
How Are Akoya Pearls Cultured?
The Pinctada fucata martensii oyster, found naturally in Japan’s and China’s coasts, is the source of Akoya pearls. These oysters are relatively small, only reaching a maximum size of around eight inches. Akoya pearl farmers typically use smaller oysters, about three to four inches in size.
Suspended at depths of around 30 feet, away from predators and ocean currents, Akoya oysters grow and mature in peace. A small piece of mantle tissue, which is the layer of the oyster that produces pearls, is inserted into the oyster. This process is known as grafting.
Once the oyster is left to its own devices, it will usually produce a pearl within a year or two. The typical time frame from farming to harvesting an Akoya pearl is 18 months.
The Different Colors, Shapes, and Sizes of Akoya Cultured Pearls
The Akoya oyster is known for producing high-quality pearls with a very high luster. Akoya cultured pearls come in a wide range of colors, but the most popular and highly prized are white and cream-colored pearls.
The other variety of colors available in Akoya cultured pearls are pink, blue, green, and black. The species of oyster and the conditions in which the pearl develops affect its final hue. For instance, the oyster used to cultivate white Akoya cultured pearls is distinct from the oyster used to culture the pink variety.
These pearls also come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from perfectly round to baroque. Akoya cultured pearls may be as little as 2mm and as big as 12mm, with 6mm-7mm being the most common size.
Double-knotted silk thread is the standard for stringing Akoya cultivated pearls.
Also See: Know All About Freshwater Cultured Pearl
The Price Range of Akoya Cultured Pearl Gemstones
Akoya cultured pearl gemstones are some of the most popular and beautiful gemstones on the market today. And, they come with a wide range of price tags.
So, how much does an Akoya cultured pearl gemstone cost?
Well, that all depends on the quality of the gemstone.
The highest quality Akoya cultured pearl gemstones can cost upwards of $1,000 per carat. But, you can also find lower quality Akoya cultured pearl gemstones for as little as $50 per carat.
It all comes down to the quality of the gemstone. So, be sure to do your research before making a purchase.
Some Benefits of Wearing an Akoya Cultured Pearl Gemstone
There are a number of astrological benefits to wearing an Akoya cultured pearl gemstone. For one, these pearls are associated with the planet Venus, which is known as the “planet of love.” This means that wearing an Akoya cultured pearl can help you attract more love and affection into your life.
In addition, Akoya cultured pearls are also said to be helpful for those who are seeking to improve their relationships. If you’re hoping to repair a damaged relationship or make a new one stronger, wearing an Akoya cultured pearl can give you a boost.
Finally, Akoya cultured pearls are also said to be helpful for those who are looking to improve their financial situation. If you’re hoping to attract more money and abundance into your life, an Akoya cultured pearl can be a powerful ally.
Taking Care of Your Akoya Cultured Pearl Gemstone
It is important to take care of your Akoya cultured pearl gemstone in order to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips for taking care of your Akoya cultured pearl ring, bracelet, or necklace:
- Store your pearl in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Make use of a gentle, damp cloth to polish your pearl. The pearl’s delicate surface may be damaged by utilising cleansers or chemicals that are too abrasive.
- If your pearl becomes scratched, you can buff out the scratch with a soft, dry cloth.
- Have your pearl professionally cleaned and inspected every few years to ensure that it is in good condition.
Also See: List of Gemstones by Color
Quick Buying Tips for Akoya Cultured Pearl Gemstone
Akoya cultured pearl rings have been around for centuries, and for good reason. Akoya pearls are classic, elegant and timeless. They are the perfect gift for a special someone, or a wonderful addition to your own jewelry collection.
If you’re looking for an Akoya cultured pearl gemstone, here are a few pointers to assist you make the finest choice:
- Determine the size you need. Akoya cultured pearls range in size from 2mm to 10mm, so it’s important to know what size you’re looking for before making a purchase.
- Consider the quality of the Akoya cultured pearl. There are three grades of Akoya pearls: A, AA, and AAA. The highest grade, AAA, is the most rare and therefore the most expensive.
- Choose the right color. Akoya cultured pearls come in a range of colors, from white to cream to pink to black. Pick a shade that complements your personality and sense of style.
- Determine your budget. Akoya cultured pearls can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on size, quality, and color. Prior to making a purchase, it’s prudent to determine a comfortable spending limit.
FAQs
Yes, they are real pearls that are grown in captivity. The primary distinction between cultured and natural pearls is that cultured pearls are cultivated in controlled environments, while natural pearls develop spontaneously in nature.
No, there are many different types of cultured pearls, including Akoya, South Sea, and Tahitian. Each type of pearl is grown in a different location and has unique characteristics.
It depends on your personal preference. Most people agree that Akoya pearls are of superior quality than their freshwater counterparts, and that their lustre is also noticeably greater. However, freshwater pearls are less expensive and more widely available.
Which Cultured Akoya Pearl Are You Buying, Then?
So you want to buy an Akoya cultured pearl gemstone, do you? It’s not as easy as just picking one off the shelf – there are a few things you need to know before making your purchase.
We’ve outlined all of the basics in this post, from the different types of Akoya cultured pearls available, to how they are cultured and what to look for when buying.
Let us know in the comment section which cultured akoya pearl is right for you!
