First Tier Pearl Necklace
(First Digitized Pearl Necklace)
This Pearl Necklace is introduced in the Movie Screening – The Pearl Legacy – in Singapore on 3rd July 2024 as first tier pearl necklace and first digitized Pearl Jewelry.
"Legacy"
Akoya Pearl Necklace
- Size : 9.0-9.5mm
- Color : White and Pink Green (Interference Color)
- Length : Chocker 42cm(including Clasp)
- Weight : 16.5 Momme
- Feature : Very Good Luster
- Clasp : Inlay Platinum, K18Gold, Oyster’s Shell
Craftsmanship and Origin
Craftsmanship: The necklace is crafted by the skilled Pearl FALCO production team in Ise Shima, Japan, known for its high standards in jewelry making.
Executive Oversight: Executive Director of Pearl FALCO, Nami Yamamoto ensures the highest quality, reflecting the pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship.
Locale: Ise Shima is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest pearls, adding to the necklace’s prestige.
象嵌Zōgan Technique for Necklace Clasp: This is a traditional Japanese metal inlay technique that involves embedding metals into a base metal to create intricate designs. This craft, which dates back to the Nara period (710-794) and was used in samurai armor, sword fittings, and ornaments, reflects high levels of skill and cultural heritage. Today, it is practiced by a dwindling number of artisans, making the preservation of their knowledge and skill all the more vital. The craftsmanship of zōgan requires a high level of skill, precision, and patience. Master artisans, often called “zōgan-shi,” undergo extensive training to perfect their techniques. Sadly, there are very few artisans left who practice zōgan, placing this beautiful and intricate craft at risk of disappearing. This makes it all the more precious and important to preserve. This necklace clasp is made of K18 Gold, K18 White Gold, Mother of Pearls (Shells), and Platinum, showcasing the exquisite detail and expertise involved in zōgan craftsmanship.
Criteria for Valuing Pearls
Pearls are evaluated based on seven criteria: luster, nacre thickness, size, shape, color, blemishes, and uniformity.
Luster
Luster is the most crucial factor in determining a pearl’s value. This necklace boasts perfect luster, akin to a mirror-like reflection, indicating high-quality nacre with fine, solid layers of calcium carbonate.
Nacre Thickness
The necklace’s nacre is thick and even, contributing to its fine luster and durability.
Size
The pearls in this necklace are 9-9.5mm in diameter, which is particularly large for Japanese Akoya pearls. Large size enhances the necklace’s rarity and value, as Akoya oysters are relatively small.
Shape
The pearls in this necklace are perfectly round, a highly sought-after shape that is difficult to achieve and indicates meticulous selection.
Blemishes
This necklace has relatively fewer blemishes, especially significant given the pearls’ large size. The fewer and less noticeable the blemishes, the higher the value of the pearls.
Uniformity
Pearl FALCO specialists carefully select and group pearls of similar luster and color. The high uniformity in this necklace enhances its visual appeal and overall value.
Ise Shima and Akoya Pearls
Birthplace of Cultured Pearls
Ise Shima is recognized as the birthplace of cultured pearls. Its unique geography with jagged coastlines, islets, deep bays, and inlets creates an ideal environment for pearl cultivation.
Historical Significance
In the late 1880s, Akoya oysters were first cultivated here, pioneering methods to produce round pearls that revolutionized the global pearl industry.
Comprehensive Craftsmanship
Ise Shima is not just a cultivation hub but also central to harvesting, cleaning, processing, grading, and crafting pearls—all steps meticulously performed by hand.
Heritage and Tradition
Ise Shima is recognized as the birthplace of cultured pearls. Its unique geography with jagged coastlines, islets, deep bays, and inlets creates an ideal environment for pearl cultivation.
Challenges and Commitment
- Cultivation Challenges: Oyster cultivation demands daily care and attention. Despite years of dedication, less than 30% of cultured pearls meet the quality standards for jewelry. Factors such as global warming and a decline in local pearl farmers have led to decreased production.
- Quality and Luster: Japanese Akoya pearls are celebrated for their exceptional luster, influenced by Japan’s four seasons and Ise Shima’s pristine estuaries. Their brilliant sheen and rich colors symbolize elegance and timeless beauty.
The Making of a Pearl Necklace
- Time and Effort: From nurturing baby oysters to showcasing the finished product, it takes 5 to 6 years to perfect a single pearl necklace. Each pearl undergoes over 3,000 touches for cleaning, processing, grading, and crafting, demonstrating artisanal dedication.
- Mission and Legacy: Pearl FALCO aims to share their passion and craftsmanship, helping more people appreciate the intrinsic value of pearls. They are committed to preserving and passing on this tradition to future generations.
The Making of a Pearl Necklace
Our mission is to share our passion and craftsmanship, helping more people appreciate the intrinsic value of pearls and continue to cherish pearl jewelry in their lives. We are committed to preserving and passing on this great tradition to future generations.
“The One Living Gemstone – Pearls.” Born in nature, cultivated with human love and devotion.
We invite you to experience the treasures of Akoya pearls, connecting you with the beauty of Ise Shima and the world. We promote a “life with pearls,” sharing the legacy of cultured pearls from Ise Shima to the global stage.
