Freshwater vs. Tahitian vs. South Sea vs. Akoya Pearls: What’s the Difference?

Cultured pearls come in several beautiful varieties, each with its own personality, shaped by the mollusk that grows it and the waters where it flourishes. Among the most cherished are Freshwater pearls, Akoya pearls, Tahitian pearls, and South Sea pearls.

From playful and affordable freshwater strands to rare, luminous South Sea treasures, each type tells its own story in jewelry.

Understanding their differences helps you appreciate the stones’ unique beauty and even inspires creative combinations: imagine creamy South Sea pearls mingling with peacock-toned Tahitians for a necklace that’s elegant and dramatic.

Freshwater Pearls, Affordable Versatility

Freshwater pearls are grown in lakes and ponds, primarily in China. Because they’re cultured in freshwater mussels, a single mussel can grow multiple pe

arls at once, making freshwater pearls abundant and budget-friendly.

These pearls come in an incredible variety of sizes, shapes, and soft hues, from classic white or cream to blush pinks, peaches, lavenders, and more. Many are irregular or “baroque” in shape, though near-round and round pearls do exist. Their thicker layers of nacre also make them durable and give them a gentle, organic glow.

Designers often love freshwater pearls for their flexibility, perfect for everyday jewelry, layered “boho” looks, mixed-shape strands, or colorful statement pieces.

Akoya Pearls, The Timeless Classic

Akoya pearls, saltwater pearls typically cultured in Japan or China, are what many people picture when they think “pearl necklace.” These pearls are usually round, with a classic white or cream base and subtle overtones of rose, silver, or ivory.

They tend to be modest in size, often around 5–9 mm. What distinguishes Akoya pearls is their mirror-like luster, they reflect light beautifully and create a refined, elegant appearance.

Because of their proportions and luminosity, Akoya pearls are ideal for classic, formal pieces like single-strand necklaces, stud earrings, and elegant bracelets. They are often paired with diamonds or finished with precious metal clasps for a timeless look.

Tahitian Pearls, Exotic Drama and Rich Color

Tahitian pearls develop in the saltwaters surrounding French Polynesia, especially near Tahiti, within the black-lipped oyster. Often called “black pearls,” they actually display a dramatic range of color, from charcoal and metallic gray to deep brown, with overtones of peacock green, blue, purple, or aubergine.

They tend to be larger than Akoyas, commonly ranging from 8–14 mm or more. Their shapes can vary as well, including round, near-round, teardrop, oval, button, or baroque.

Tahitian pearls are beloved for their moody iridescence and are perfect for statement jewelry: bold necklaces, dramatic earrings, and striking pendants. When set in cool-toned metals like white gold, their unique colors appear even more vibrant.

South Sea Pearls, The Crown Jewels of Pearls

South Sea pearls are the largest and most luxurious type of cultured pearl, grown in the Pinctada maxima oyster across the warm waters of Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and nearby regions.

They frequently range from 9–16 mm or more. Their high value comes from their large size, thick nacre due to extended growth periods, and soft, satiny luster.

Colors typically range from silvery white to creamy tones and rich gold, especially from gold-lipped oysters.

In jewelry design, South Sea pearls take center stage. A strand of matched white South Sea pearls is considered a true investment piece. Golden South Sea pearls, with their radiant warmth, shine in pendants, rings, and drop earrings. Their presence is so strong that a single pearl can complete a design effortlessly.

How Jewelers and Designers Use Pearls Today

Pearls thrive in both traditional and contemporary designs. Jewelers often blend pearl types, shapes, and colors to create modern, expressive looks. Examples include:

• Pastel freshwater pearls for everyday or layered “boho” styling

• Classic Akoya studs or strands for heirloom-style elegance

• Tahitian or South Sea pearls for dramatic, sculptural statement pieces

• Pearl and gemstone combinations for a modern twist

Designers may even pair creamy South Sea pearls with peacock-toned Tahitians to create dynamic, high-contrast pieces.

Why Pearl Quality and Type Matter

Size, shape, luster, surface quality, nacre thickness, and matching all influence the beauty and value of pearls. Round and symmetrical pearls are rarer and often more valuable, but baroque pearls offer unique character.

Because each type of pearl grows in specific conditions and mollusks, they have distinct size ranges, colors, and luster characteristics. Understanding these helps you choose pearls that reflect your personal style, whether that’s everyday versatility, classic beauty, bold drama, or luxurious elegance.

In a Nutshell, What Each Pearl Type Brings

Freshwater pearls, versatile, colorful, playful, and budget-friendly
Akoya pearls, classic, round, mirror-lustrous, ideal for timeless elegance
Tahitian pearls, mysterious, dramatic, and richly iridescent for bold designs
South Sea pearls, luxurious, large, and luminous, perfect for milestone pieces

Pearls, in all their diversity, offer something for every style and occasion. Whether you love delicate freshwater necklaces or luminous South Sea pendants, choosing pearls with intention means choosing more than jewelry. You’re choosing a story, a mood, a memory waiting to be worn.

References 

Gemological Institute of America. (n.d.). Pearl description. GIA. https://www.gia.edu/pearl-description

Gemological Institute of America. (n.d.). Types of cultured pearls. GIA. https://www.gia.edu/pearl-buying-guide

Gemological Institute of America. (n.d.). Pearl value factors. GIA. https://www.gia.edu/pearl-quality-factor

Pure Pearls. (n.d.). The ultimate guide to pearls. Pure Pearls. https://www.purepearls.com/pages/pearl-education

Picup Media. (2023, January 4). 2023 jewelry trends: What to expect in the jewelry scene this year. Picup Media. https://blog.picupmedia.com/jewelry-trends-2023/

Tiffany & Co. (n.d.). Tiffany HardWear collection. Tiffany & Co. https://www.tiffany.com/jewelry/collections/tiffany-hardwear/

Tiffany & Co. (n.d.). Tiffany Victoria® collection. Tiffany & Co. https://www.tiffany.com/jewelry/collections/tiffany-victoria/