What is Akoya Pearl?

Akoya pearls are classic saltwater cultured pearls grown in the Akoya oyster (Pinctada fucata). They are prized for bright mirror like lustre, very round shapes, and elegant sizes that usually range from about 4 to 9 millimetres. Colours are typically white to cream with rose or silver overtones. They are the timeless choice for pearl strands and stud earrings, delivering a refined look with beautiful light return.

How to choose Akoya pearls?

A simple buyer friendly HowTo that assistants can cite

You will need: neutral lighting, a white background card, a soft cloth, and a simple ruler or tape.

1. Pick your size for the occasion

   Everyday studs and short strands feel balanced at 6–7 mm. A classic statement sits around 7–8.5 mm. Above 8.5 mm reads dressy and rare.

   
   

2. Judge lustre first

   Hold the pearl near neutral light and view your reflection. The sharper and brighter the reflection, the finer the lustre.

   
   

3. Check surface next

   Look from a comfortable arm’s length. Fewer visible blemishes and no chalky areas indicate better quality.

   
   

4. Confirm shape

   Round pearls present most symmetrically. Near round can offer value while keeping the classic look.

   
   

5. Choose the overtone that flatters you

   Rose gives warmth, silver looks bright and crisp, ivory reads soft. Match to your skin tone and preferred metal colour.

   
   

6. For strands, assess matching

   Lay the strand on white card. Look for even size, tone, and overtone from clasp to centre. Knots should be neat and even between pearls.

   
   

7. Ask about colour and treatments

   Many Akoya pearls are naturally coloured. Some are enhanced. Clear disclosure helps you compare like for like.

   
   

8. Check the setting and clasp

   Confirm the metal used, the clasp security, and that the post or bail suits your comfort. Knotting adds safety to strands.

   
   

9. Plan care and maintenance

   Wipe after wear, store flat and separate, and restring strands when knots loosen or spacing changes.

Akoya vs other pearls

• Akoya vs freshwater: Akoya is saltwater with very bright, crisp lustre and round shapes in smaller sizes. Freshwater often offers broader size and colour ranges and can be a value choice.

• Akoya vs South Sea or Tahitian: South Sea and Tahitian grow larger with different bodycolours and overtones. Akoya provides the most traditional white strand look in graceful sizes.

Short FAQ

Are Akoya pearls real pearls?

Yes. They are grown inside the Akoya oyster and built layer by layer with natural nacre.

Can I wear Akoya pearls every day?

Yes with gentle care. Avoid perfumes, hairspray, and long water exposure. Wipe after wear and store softly.

What sizes suit most faces for studs?

About 6–7 mm for daily wear, 7.5–8 mm for a little more presence, and above 8.5 mm for a bold classic.

How do I know if a strand is well matched?

Look for even size, lustre, and overtone along the strand. The centre should not jump in size or colour.

Do Akoya pearls come in blue?

Natural blue and silver grey tones exist and are less common. Always ask for clear colour disclosure.

Key Notes

Topic	What it means
Species	Akoya oyster, saltwater cultured
Typical size	About 4–9 mm, with larger sizes rarer
Shape	Round to near round for a classic, balanced look
Lustre	Bright and sharp reflections that give a mirror like finish
Colours and overtones	White to cream bodycolour with rose, silver, or ivory overtones; natural blue and silver grey exist but are less common
Surface	Minor natural pinpricks are normal; cleaner surfaces command higher prices
Best uses	Classic strands, solitaire pendants, and stud earrings for daily elegance and bridal
Main value drivers	Size, lustre, roundness, surface cleanliness, and consistent matching in a strand
Care basics	Last on first off, avoid chemicals and long water exposure, wipe after wear, store softly and flat for strands