The Akoya pearl has a special place in our hearts at Mikimoto, as it was the pearl with which Kokichi Mikimoto first started his pearl cultivation enterprise. Kokichi Mikimoto was determined to find a way to produce pearls that were of the highest quality.
In 1893 the first cultured Akoya pearl was made – an amazing achievement that created the cultured pearl industry we know today. In 1905 the world’s first spherical cultured Akoya pearl was born, down to the tireless research of Kokichi Mikimoto, and these amazing Japanese Akoya pearl oysters.
Akoya oysters, from the waters of Japan, live in shoals and in water depths of 1 – 5 metres. These calm seas have few large waves and mild temperatures of 15 to 23 degrees Celsius. These prefect oceanic climates attribute to the production of pearls with brilliant lustre and rich colours – the qualities the Akoya pearl has become renowned for. Akoya colours range from white, cream and pink to silver pink.
The Akoya oyster is the smallest pearl-producing oyster in the world. Akoya pearls are often available in the market in sizes of 3 – 10mm. Their amazing ability and consistency in producing near-perfect round cultured pearls make them ideal for adorning some of the world’s finest pearl jewellery.
The Akoya pearl remains a pure symbol of elegance and beauty.
Buying advice for Akoya pearls:
Being the smallest type of pearl (the most popular size for Akoya is 6-8mm), Akoya pearl jewellery is an excellent choice for first time buyers of pearl jewellery. Akoya pearls look great on everyone regardless of age; they can look sophisticated or youthful depending on how and by whom they are worn.
Many customers choose to start at small size Akoya pearls and then gradually increase, upgrading to large size Akoya pearls or higher grade (for a 30th wedding anniversary, for example). Akoya pearl necklaces and pearl bracelets are among the most popular Akoya products, and often achieve a classic and timeless look.
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