Pearls have long been symbols of elegance and glamour, and among the many varieties, Akoya pearls stand out. Celebrated for their luminous sheen, perfect symmetry and timeless allure, these gems have enthralled women across the globe for generations.
But what makes these oceanic treasures so enchanting and sets them apart from other varieties? The secret lies not only in their exquisite beauty but also in the cultivation and craftsmanship that transform them into exquisitely timeless gems, like the ones in the Bernhard H. Mayer Pearl Icons Collection from QNET.
What are Akoya Pearls?
Akoya pearls are harvested from the Pinctada fucata oyster, a species of mollusc that thrives in the shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Originally farmed exclusively in Japan, these gems are now also cultivated in China, Vietnam, South Korea, Thailand and Australia.
Akoya pearls are cultured, meaning they’re grown in controlled environments, and the process typically begins by inserting or seeding a nucleus (i.e., a small shell bead) and a small piece of oyster mantle tissue into a live oyster. This triggers the oyster to produce nacre or mother-of-pearl, the substance that forms pearls.
What distinguishes the cultivation of Akoya pearls from other cultured pearls is that the entire process, from seeding to harvesting, is labour-intensive and can take 10 to 18 months. Plus, not only do Pinctada fucata oysters produce only one to two pearls each, but they also require clean, nutrient-rich waters and stable temperatures.
Why are Akoya Pearls So Sought-After and Considered Superior?
Incidentally, only a fraction of oysters survive the seeding process, and fewer than 5% of these produce high-quality pearls. Additionally, the gems are graded according to very stringent standards. Essentially, experts sift through tens of thousands of pearls and carefully evaluate them based on several key factors, among them:
- Lustre — This relates to the bright, mirror-like radiance of Akoya pearls. The sheen, which is the result of thick layers of nacre, augments the gems’ splendour and durability.
- Shape — Unlike other pearls, which come in various shapes, Akoya pearls are perfectly round. This kind of symmetry has to do with precise cultivation techniques and the spherical shell of the oysters.
- Size — Pinctada fucata oysters are the smallest of all pearl-producing oysters. So, they yield pearls that range between 3 mm and 9.5 mm. This is also why Akoya pearls are sold based on size rather than weight.
- Colour — While oysters produce a variety of coloured pearls, Akoya pearls tend to be white with subtle hints of pink, cream or silver. The most sought-after are the gems with rose and silver overtones.
- Surface Quality — Like other gems, surface blemishes and stains can mean a reduction in value. Hence, top-grade Akoya pearls are always smooth, pristine and free from noticeable imperfections.
Do Akoya Pearls Really Last Forever?
Akoya pearls never go out of style. These silken jewels, which have adorned historical figures, royals and Hollywood icons, are enjoying a renaissance and being celebrated once again for their eternal charm and versatility.
This is exemplified by the Bernard H. Mayer Pearl Icons Collection from QNET, with each piece in the line, perfectly blending tradition and modernity.
The Greta Set presents such versatile charm precisely. For instance, the Greta Necklace, with its three detachable pearls, combines sophistication with playfulness, while the Greta Bracelet, with its single Akoya pearl gracefully resting on a gold bangle and chain, seamlessly fuses the past with the present. The Greta Bangle’s dainty profile is accentuated by two gleaming pearls, complementing its sister pieces with a striking effect, and the Greta Earrings are elegant standalone highlights that also perfectly fit the rest.
Meanwhile, the Moon Glory Pendant and Earring Set are about shining brightly and glamorously, regardless of the occasion.
In short, whether worn as a statement piece, for a formal occasion or as part of an everyday ensemble, Akoya pearls are no longer seen as relics of the past or mumsy, but as expressions of artistry, timeless beauty and eternal style.
This article was originally published in October 2021, and has been updated with further details.
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