BLACK PEARLS

Where do black pearls come from?

Black pearls come from French Polynesia, namely Tahiti, and the Cook Islands.

Why is the Tahitian pearl black?

It is black because it is created by the black-lipped oyster found in French Polynesian waters, known as the 'Pinctada Margaritifera'. This oyster naturally secretes a black pigment, which gives the resulting pearl a basic colour ranging from black to grey.

How much does a Tahitian pearl cost?

A Tahitian pearl can cost anywhere from $100 for a small pearl of average quality up to $10,000 for a large round pearl of exceptional quality.

Are Tahitian pearls more expensive than white pearls?

Tahitian pearls are more expensive than white pearls of the non-South Sea variety because the oyster that produces it is rarer and its farming much more delicate. They have to be farmed in special areas that meet their needs, and not close to inhabited areas such as is the case with white pearls. Tahitian pearls are grown for a much longer period of time (a minimum of two years) than white pearls (as little as eight months). However, South Sea white pearls can be just as expensive as Tahitian pearls and require the same intensive care.

Is the Tahitian pearl natural?

The Tahitian pearl is naturally cultured with man intervening in the place of nature.

Are there natural black pearls?

Yes, but one out of about every 15,000 pearl oysters!

Are Tahitian pearls dyed?

Tahitian pearls are not dyed. They are 100% natural colour.

What is the best colour for Tahitian pearls?

Tahitian pearls come in many different colours, but it is peacock green which is the most rare and costly colour. However, all the colours are beautiful therefore you should choose the colour that pleases you most, which looks the best on you.

What makes a black pearl more expensive?

A perfectly round and symmetrical shape, high lustre, rare colour, smooth surface and large size can all contribute to increasing the value of a pearl.

How much would a strand of black pearls cost?

You can expect to pay tens of thousands of dollars for a good quality strand of black pearls.