Planning to buy a Tahitian cultured pearl gemstone? You’re in for a real treat!
These truly stunning gems have a fascinating history, and they come in a variety of colors, from black to green to blue. Their brilliant sheen and iridescence are further selling points.
To be more specific, what are Tahitian pearls famous for? What’s the best way to buy them? How useful would you say it is, specifically?
Keep reading to find out!
What are Tahitian Cultured Pearls: History and Origin
Tahitian cultured pearls are some of the world’s most popular and valuable pearls. But what exactly are they? And where do they come from?
Black-lipped oysters, endemic to the French Polynesian islands, are the source of Tahitian pearls. The first Tahitian cultured pearl was reportedly grown in 1964, but it wasn’t until the late 1970s that production really began to ramp up.
The majority of Tahitian cultured pearls are grown in the lagoon surrounding the island of Tahiti. These lagoon pearls are typically larger and more valuable than those grown in other parts of French Polynesia.
Today, people love Tahitian pearls for their unique colors, which range from pale cream to inky black. They are also significantly larger than other types of cultured pearls, with an average diameter of 9mm.
Also See: All About South Sea Cultured Pearls
How Are Tahitian Pearls Cultured?
Tahitian pearls are cultured in the lagoon waters of French Polynesia. The black-lipped oyster, Pinctada margaritifera, is the primary mollusk used to cultivate Tahitian pearls.
Tahitian pearl farmers use two different methods to cultivate black pearls. The first method, known as the nucleus method, involves inserting a small piece of shell into the oyster. The oyster will then secrete nacre around the nucleus, slowly building up a pearl. This method typically takes two to three years to produce a finished pearl.
The second method, known as the bead method, involves inserting a small bead into the oyster along with the nucleus. The bead provides a surface for the oyster to secrete nacre around, resulting in a pearl with a more lustrous appearance. This method typically takes 18 to 24 months to produce a finished pearl.
Process of Farming Tahitian Pearls:
- The first thing that needs to happen is finding a suitable location for farming. This usually involves finding a reef in shallow, warm waters.
- As soon as farmers settle on a reef site, they will need to obtain some juvenile oysters, which they will place in the reef.
- The next step is to wait for the oysters to mature, which takes around two years.
- Once the oysters mature, farmers will insert either a small piece of shell or a small bead into the oyster, along with a nucleus.
- The oyster will then secrete nacre around the nucleus or bead, slowly building up a pearl.
- After 18 to 24 months, the pearl will be harvested and then graded according to quality.
The Different Colors, Shapes, & Sizes of Tahitian Cultured Pearls
Due to the distinct black-grey tone, Tahitian cultured pearls are often called “black pearls.” However, these lustrous gems come in a wide range of colors, from classic black to more unusual shades like green, blue, and even pink.
The most popular Tahitian cultured pearl colors are black, silver-gray, and green. However, black and gray shades make them a popular choice on the list of black gemstones.
These freshwater pearls are available in many shapes, from the conventional round to the more peculiar baroque and semi-baroque. Round, oval, and drop shapes are the most common types of Tahitian cultivated pearls.
Tahitian cultured pearls come in a wide range of sizes, from small 6-7mm pearls to large 12-13mm pearls.
The Price Range of Tahitian Cultured Pearl Gemstones
If you’re interested in owning a Tahitian cultured pearl, you’ll need to be prepared to pay a pretty penny. Tahitian pearls can range in price from $200 to $20,000 per pearl, depending on the size, quality, and color.
If you’re looking for a piece of jewelry that is truly unique, a Tahitian pearl ring is a great option. These rings can cost anywhere from $500 to several thousand dollars, depending on the size and quality of the pearls and the metal setting. However, Tahitian cultured pearl rings are definitely an excellent long-term investment.
If you’re looking for a more affordable way to wear Tahitian pearls, consider a Tahitian cultured pearl bracelet or necklace. These pieces are typically more affordable than rings and offer a beautiful way to show off these stunning gemstones. Tahitian cultural pearl earrings are also a popular option, and they can range in price from $100 to $1,000, depending on the style and quality of the pearls.
No matter how you choose to wear them, Tahitian cultured pearls are a stunning addition to any jewelry collection.
Also See: All About Akoya Cultured Pearls
Some Benefits of Wearing a Tahitian Cultured Pearl Gemstone
There are a lot of astrological benefits to Tahitian cultured pearl. It is effective in alleviating gastrointestinal, intestinal, and neurological issues. Some people attribute its success in psychotherapy to its ability to relieve stress and melancholy. Utilizing a Tahitian cultured pearl might enhance the overall quality of your sleep. It may also assist in stress reduction and induction of a state of calmness.
According to reports, wearing a Tahitian cultured pearl may aid in treating skin conditions such as acne. It may also assist with PMS and menopause. A Tahitian pearl may help reduce one’s likelihood of acquiring osteoporosis. In addition, it may help in warding against cardiovascular disease.
Some people also believe that Tahitian pearls have anti-aging effects. It may also help treat neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. There is anecdotal evidence that wearing a Tahitian pearl might alleviate MS symptoms. Moreover, it has shown efficacy in treating the symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism.
How to Maintain Your Tahitian Cultured Pearl Jewelry
Take good care of your Tahitian pearl jewelry if you are blessed to acquire a piece. Here is some advice on how to care for that beautiful Tahitian cultured pearl ring you just bought:
- It’s best to keep your Tahitian pearl gemstone in a cool, dry area. Don’t keep it somewhere warm and damp.
- Always use a gentle, dry towel to wipe off your Tahitian pearls. Using solvents or other powerful cleaning solutions might potentially harm the pearl.
- Every few years, take your Tahitian pearls to a jeweler to ensure they are still in pristine condition.
- If you’re going to be doing anything that might scratch or chip your Tahitian pearls, including swimming or cleaning, take them off first.
Also See: All About Freshwater Cultured Pearl Gemstone
Quick Buying Tips for Tahitian Cultured Pearl Gemstone
It’s important to remember that not all Tahitian cultured pearls are the same while you’re out hunting for one. Here are a few quick tips to help you choose the best pearls for your needs:
- Look for Tahitian pearls that are round in shape.
- Choose pearls that have a good luster.
- Make sure the pearls you select are free of blemishes.
- Watch out for the size of the pearls you pick.
- Consider the color of the Tahitian pearls you are interested in.
- Choose pearls strung onto a silk thread.
- Make sure the pearls you purchase are from a reputable source.
FAQs
Absolutely! The method used to collect Tahitian freshwater pearls is utterly harmless to the oysters. The pearls are simply gathered from the oysters when they open for other purposes.
No, Tahitian freshwater pearls can be treated just like any other type of pearl. To prevent scratches, wipe them with a gentle cloth and mild soap and keep them apart from other jewelry.
The vast majority of Tahitian pearls on the market today are cultured. This means that they were grown in oysters on pearl farms. The only way to be absolutely sure that a Tahitian pearl is cultured is to have it examined by a qualified gemologist.
Purchasing a Cultured Tahitian Pearl?
If you’re in the market for a Tahitian cultured pearl gemstone, we hope this guide has been helpful. As with any major purchase, it’s essential to do your research and understand what you’re buying before handing over your hard-earned cash.
The final say on whether or not a Tahitian pearl is perfect for you is solely in your hands.
If you have any questions or need help finding the perfect piece of jewelry for yourself or someone special, don’t hesitate to let us know – we love nothing more than helping our readers find their dream piece of jewelry.
