The 4 Main Types of Pearls: A Complete Identification Guide

The 4 Main Types of Pearls: A Complete Identification Guide

New buyers are often confused by pearl terminology. "Cultured" describes almost all pearls on the market, but that doesn't tell you what you are buying.

Are you looking at a $50 Freshwater strand or a $5,000 South Sea strand?

There are 4 major types of cultured pearls you need to know. Each has a distinct look, price point, and "personality." Here is how to spot the difference.

Curious about price? Once you identify your pearls below, check our Pearl Value Guide to see what they are worth.

Comparison at a Glance

1. Freshwater Pearls (The Affordable Standard)

Most pearls sold today are Freshwater. Produced in mussels in China, a single mussel can grow up to 30 pearls at once, making them abundant and affordable.

• The Look: Often found in "Rice" or "Potato" shapes. Top-tier ones are round, but typically have a softer, satin-like glow compared to saltwater pearls.
• Colors: White, Pink, Lavender, Peach (Pastels).
• Best For: Daily wear, fashion jewelry, and graduation gifts.

2. Akoya Pearls (The Classic Icon)

When you close your eyes and picture a "Pearl Necklace," you are picturing Akoyas. Historically farmed in Japan, they are the standard for high-end white pearls.

• The Look: Perfectly round. Their defining feature is their highly reflective, mirror-like luster. You should be able to see your reflection in a high-quality Akoya.
• Colors: White with Rose, Silver, or Cream overtones.
• Best For: The "Power Strand" for the boardroom, weddings, and formal events.

3. Tahitian Pearls (The Dark Exotic)

Often called "Black Pearls," though they are rarely jet black. Grown in the pristine waters of French Polynesia, these are naturally dark—no dye is used.

• The Look: Larger than Akoya. They are famous for their "Overtones"—shimmering colors of Peacock Green, Eggplant Purple, and Steel Gray that float over the dark body color.
• Colors: Slate Gray, Silver, Black, Green.
• Best For: Making a statement. A Tahitian strand is edgy, modern, and unisex.

4. South Sea Pearls (The Queen of Gems)

These are the Rolls Royce of the pearl world. Grown in the Pinctada maxima oyster (the largest pearl oyster), they produce massive, velvety gems.

• The Look: Big. Usually starting at 9mm and going up to monster sizes like 20mm. They have a deep, silky luster that looks like it glows from within, rather than the sharp mirror reflection of Akoya.
• Varieties:
  • White South Sea: Australia (Silver/White).
  • Golden South Sea: Philippines/Indonesia (Champagne to 24k Gold).
• Best For: Serious collectors and red carpet moments.

Which Type Should You Buy?

• Budget < $300: Go for a high-quality Freshwater strand.
• Budget $500 - $1,500: The sweet spot for a classic Akoya necklace.
• Budget $2,000+: Step up to the luxury of Tahitian or South Sea.

FAQ: Common Pearl Type Questions

"Are Majorca pearls a type?" No. Majorca (or Mallorca) pearls are man-made imitations from Spain. They are glass beads dipped in a coating. They are not cultured pearls.

"What is a Mikimoto pearl?" Mikimoto is a brand, not a type. They sell (mostly) Akoya and South Sea pearls. You are buying the highest grade of those types, curated by the brand.

"Which pearl is the most durable?" Freshwater pearls are actually the most durable. Because they don't have a bead nucleus inside, they are 100% solid nacre. They are very hard to chip or wear down.