Japanese Akoya Pearls, Freshwater Pearls and more have traditionally adorned the necks of women on formal occasions. However, in recent times, these exquisite white pearl necklace strands have seamlessly transcended their formal confines, becoming an accessory of choice for women of all ages, suitable for both casual and elegant affairs.
The query often arises: What sets apart Japanese Akoya pearls, the distinctive saltwater gems, from their freshwater counterparts? With the abundance of white pearl necklaces on the market, it’s essential to discern the nuances between these two options.
Here’s the intriguing revelation. The distinction between freshwater and Japanese Akoya pearl necklaces extends beyond geographical origin. While freshwater pearl necklaces may be more budget-friendly, stemming from their production in China, Japanese Akoya pearl necklaces bear a heftier price tag, not solely due to their Japanese heritage, but also due to a variety of other factors that contribute to their exquisite allure.
Freshwater Pearls & Pearl Necklaces
China is the largest producer of freshwater pearls. Bivalve clams are cultivated in lakes, ponds and rice fields to produce tens to hundreds of pearls in a relatively short period of time, typically 18-24 months for cultivation. Depending on the pearls’ size, a single clam can produce several pearls in its lifetime. The reason for this is how freshwater clams produce less dense layers of nacre for each pearl layer, allowing them to produce more pearls far more quickly.
97% Of Worldwide Pearl Production Is from Freshwater Pearls.
Understandably, while freshwater pearls are appreciated for their pricing, the reduced nacre density causes freshwater pearls to change color over time. Freshwater pearls also tend to be far more brittle and less durable than saltwater pearls, which makes saltwater pearl jewelry more desirable as multi-generational legacy gifts of choice.
Genuine Japanese Akoya Pearl Necklaces vs. Freshwater Pearl Necklaces
When it comes to pearl necklaces, there are several options available in the market, with two of the most popular being genuine Japanese Akoya pearl necklaces and freshwater pearl necklaces. Here are some key differences between the two:
- Origin: Japanese Akoya pearls are harvested from saltwater Akoya oysters, which are primarily found in Japan, China, and Vietnam. On the other hand, freshwater pearls are produced by mussels in freshwater lakes, rivers, and ponds.
- Size and shape: Akoya pearls are typically smaller and rounder, with a size ranging from 2mm to 11mm, whereas freshwater pearls can grow up to 15mm and come in various shapes such as round, oval, button, and baroque.
- Luster and color: Akoya pearls have a higher luster and a more intense, metallic shine than freshwater pearls, which have a softer, more satin-like luster. Akoya pearls also come in a limited range of colors, mostly white, cream, and pink, while freshwater pearls come in a wider range of colors, including white, pink, lavender, and even black.
- Price: Akoya pearls are typically more expensive than freshwater pearls due to their scarcity, higher quality, and longer cultivation time.
Overall, both types of pearls have their unique characteristics and beauty, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget.
The Nature of Japan and the People’s Love and Devotion
In contrast, Akoya Pearls are cultivated in the calm and clean ocean waters of the Sea of Japan. Akoya oysters are more susceptible to environmental changes. Taking years to mature, with almost half of their number not surviving the cultivation process, a single mother oyster produces only one pearl in her life.
From baby oyster to mother oyster, it takes approximately 3 to 4 years. From seeding to pearl harvesting, it takes another 1 to 2 years, so approximately 4 to 5 years in total. During that time, pearl farming demands daily observation and care, just as all mothers devote to their own children. Of the fully cultivated and harvested pearls, less than 28% will be used for making jewelry. The rest are ground into powder and used for medicines, herbs and cosmetics.
Due to global warming and a reduction in the number of local pearl farmers, the production of Akoya Pearls has been declining rapidly and is currently 1/10th the historical average. In 2019 alone, 80% of local Akoya mother oysters died due to climate change.
The Akoya Pearl Necklace Legacy
Akoya pearls are highly regarded worldwide because of their high translucence, luster and fine texture. These qualities are attributed to Japan’s four seasons and the beautiful natural environment of Ise Shima Japan, where multiple generations of local families have been entrusted to protect and pass on this great tradition to the future.
Born in nature, all pearls are unique and special and no two pearls are exactly alike. Even today, we still evaluate pearls one by one with our own expert eyes. After harvesting, each pearl you see in our Pearl FALCO Showroom has been touched at least 3000 times for cleaning, processing, grading, and crafting. Akoya Pearl cultivation is one of the great traditions of Japan. When considered in the context above – a 40cm Akoya pearl necklace strand can range in price from as little as S$1,000 to over S$10,000, depending on the selection, quality and uniformity of each pearl.
With this enhanced understanding, one can appreciate how the difference between saltwater and freshwater pearls is not only about the quality of pearls. The difference also involves the unique natural environment of Ise Shima Japan, the nature of an Akoya mother oyster, and the amount of time and effort involved in cultivating Akoya pearls.
A living jewel, the Akoya pearl necklace is one of Japan’s treasures that Pearl FALCO is honored to present to the world. Our mission is to share our knowledge of pearls and the beauty of pearls with the world.
With a greater awareness of Akoya pearl necklaces vs freshwater pearl necklaces, we encourage you to wear Japanese Akoya pearls and enjoy their uniquely timeless beauty! What makes Akoya pearl jewelry so distinctive is how naturally born gemstones can be passed from one generation to the next with your love and memories.