Tahitian pearls are known to be the best and second most valuable commercially farmed pearls in the world. Tahitians naturally have a dark color, unlike black freshwater and black Akoya pearls, which have been treated with radiation or dye.
Unlike Akoya pearls, Tahitian pearls are bead-nucleated, although the nacre is usually very thick. According to French Polynesian law, the thinnest nacre that can be exported is 0.8 mm, which is incredibly thick in the world of Akoya.
So, if pearl is on your buying list and you are confused between the different types available, then read this whole blog to know the real difference between Akoya vs Freshwater pearl.
What Exactly Akoya Pearl Is?
Akoya pearl is known as the classic white pearl, and they are perfectly round in shape. Every women wants an Akoya jewelry piece in their collection because of its mirror like luster. These type of pearls are usually cultures in Japan, China, and Vietnam. In comparison to these location, Japan is the one where mostly pearls are created.
If you look a traditional Akoya pearl, it will always be white, but nowadays they are also available in gold and silver-blue color.
As we have discussed about the Akoya pearl, let’s talk about…
What Exactly Tahitian Pearl Is?
Tahitian pearls are the only pearls with a full color spectrum. The mantle of black-lip pearl oysters is a rainbow of natural colors. Some of the best Tahitian pearls have colors that shimmer over their surface, expressing these colors in a wonderful way.
According to some estimates, Tahitian pearls are the second most precious pearls produced commercially worldwide. Tahitians naturally have a dark color, unlike black freshwater and black Akoya pearls, which have been treated with radiation or dye.
To know further about the difference, let’s check this comparison…
Know The Difference Between Akoya Vs Tahitian
|
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. |
Since there are so few naturally occurring pearls, the market for cultured pearls has grown dramatically over time. This has caused the production of several cultured pearl kinds, such as Akoya and Tahitian, to rise exponentially.
Their pricing has significantly decreased as a result of the increase in production, making them more affordable for a far wider range of consumers.
Wrapping Up With:
Tahitian pearls have a distinct color, but they also have secondary colors, or overtones, that enhance sparkle. Despite being marginally costlier than Akoya pearls, Tahitian pearls are prized for their unique appearance and scarcity.
If you're seeking for affordable white pearl choices and have an interest in them, Akoya is a great option. However, Tahitian pearls are the best option if you have your heart set on dark-hued pearls and money is not an object.
