| Basis |
Akoya Pearl |
Tahitian Pearl |
| Color |
Usually exhibit white and grey body color with overtones of pink. |
Available in shades of black with overtones of gray, bronze or dark green. |
| Pearl farming location |
The majority of the farming takes place in Japan. It is also produced in China, Vietnam and Australia. |
Most of the Tahitian pearl cultivation takes place in French Polynesian archipelagos. |
| Oyster Type |
Comes from Pinctadafucatamartensii, also called the Akoya pearl oyster. |
Formed within the Pinctadamargaritifera, also known as the black-lipped oyster. |
| Size |
Usually measure from 3mm to a rare 11mm. |
Varies from 8mm to 18mm. |
| Treatment |
These pearls usually do not undergo any enhancements. |
Their color is completely natural and devoid of any treatments. |
| Rarity |
Usually a single pearl takes 18 months to 2 years to mature completely. |
It's one of the rarest type of pearls, with a single gem taking around 24 months to mature. |
| Popularity |
Symmetry in shape coupled with a bright mirror- like luster and a neutral color makes them very popular. |
The rarity and enigmatic hue make it an expensive and sought-after gem. |
