How Many Types of Pearls Are There?
How Many Types of Pearls Are There? Your Complete Guide to Pearl Types, Colors & Value
Key Takeaways
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Natural pearls vs. cultured pearls: Natural pearls form without human intervention, while cultured pearls are intentionally grown in controlled environments.
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Freshwater pearls are primarily cultured in China, while saltwater pearls (Akoya, Tahitian, and South Sea) are grown in regions such as Japan, French Polynesia, Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
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Baroque and non-traditional pearls offer unique shapes and colors ideal for modern jewelry styles.
Why Pearls Are More Diverse Than Most People Think
Pearl jewelry is especially popular among customers in Brea, Orange County, and Southern California due to its timeless beauty and natural elegance. While many imagine a pearl as perfectly round and white, pearls actually come in dozens of shapes, colors, and varieties.
Understanding the different types of pearls can help you choose the perfect piece—whether you’re shopping for a pearl necklace, earrings, bracelet, or ring.
Natural vs. Cultured Pearls: What’s the Difference?
Natural Pearls
Natural pearls form entirely on their own when an irritant enters a mollusk. These pearls are extremely rare and often irregular in shape. Because of their scarcity, natural pearls are typically more valuable.
Cultured Pearls
Cultured pearls form when trained technicians insert a bead or tissue graft inside a mollusk. These pearls grow in either freshwater or saltwater environments and make up nearly 100% of pearls sold today. They offer consistent quality, size, and shape—making them more affordable and accessible.
Main Types of Pearls (With Examples & Key Characteristics)
Below are the major pearl categories used in fine jewelry.
1. Freshwater Pearls
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Cultured primarily in China
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Form inside freshwater mussels
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Available in many shapes, colors, and sizes
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Natural colors include white, pink, peach, and lavender
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Frequently, more affordable than saltwater pearls
Freshwater pearls are a top choice for everyday jewelry due to their durability and variety.
2. Saltwater Pearls
Akoya Pearls
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Grown in Japan, China, and Vietnam
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Known for their mirror-like luster
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Classic white pearls with pink, silver, or cream overtones
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Sizes typically 2–10 mm
Akoya pearls are the iconic white pearls used in traditional pearl necklaces.
Tahitian Pearls
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Cultured in French Polynesia
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The only pearls that grow naturally in dark body colors
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Shades range from silver to deep black with green, blue, or peacock overtones
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Typically 8–18 mm
Tahitian pearls are perfect for bold, luxurious jewelry.
Golden South Sea Pearls
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Grown in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia
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Among the rarest and most valuable cultured pearls
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Colors range from champagne to deep gold
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Typically 8–20 mm
These pearls are prized for their size, rarity, and warm golden glow.
White South Sea Pearls
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Cultured by the silver-lip Pinctada maxima oyster
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Harvested in Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines
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Known for their large size and soft satin luster
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Among the most luxurious pearls available
South Sea pearls are often the centerpiece of high-end pearl jewelry.
Baroque & Non-Traditional Pearl Shapes
Not all pearls are round. Many develop free-form shapes that are highly desirable in modern and artistic jewelry designs.
Popular non-traditional pearls include:
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Twin pearls: Two pearls fused together
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Coin pearls: Flat, round, and highly reflective
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Heart pearls: Romantic flat heart shapes
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Rice pearls: Small, elongated forms
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Egg pearls: Ideal for pendants and drop earrings
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Keshi pearls: Naturally formed beadless pearls known for strong luster
These pearls are perfect for unique, personalized jewelry.
How to Choose the Right Pearl (Expert Tips)
When selecting pearl jewelry, consider the following:
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Choose oval or pear-shaped pearls for elegant earrings.
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Select Baroque pearls if you prefer modern or artistic styles.
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Match pearl color to your skin tone for the most flattering look.
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Look for high luster—the sharper the reflection, the better the quality.
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Choose Freshwater or Akoya pearls for durable, everyday pieces.
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Pick larger or darker pearls (such as Tahitian) for dramatic statement jewelry.
Why Buy Pearl Jewelry From Jeweler’s Touch?
Jeweler’s Touch offers one of the best selections of Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea, and Freshwater pearl jewelry in Brea and across Orange County. Customers trust us for:
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Custom pearl jewelry design
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Pearl cleaning, repair, and restoration
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Pearl appraisals by trained professionals
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Free shipping on online orders over $99
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Expert guidance from GIA-trained and AGS-certified staff
Whether you’re shopping online or visiting our Brea showroom, you’ll find beautiful pearl pieces for every style and occasion.
Service Areas in North Orange County
We proudly serve customers in:
Including zip codes 92821, 92831, 92832, 90631, 92886, and surrounding areas.
Shop the Best Pearl Jewelry in Brea, CA
At Jeweler’s Touch, you’ll find a wide selection of pearl rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and pendants. Explore our online store, browse our education resources, or contact our team for personalized assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many types of pearls exist?
The most recognized pearl types are Freshwater, Akoya, South Sea (White & Golden), Tahitian, and Sea of Cortez. Rare non-nacreous pearls—such as conch or melo—also exist but are not farmed.
Which pearls are most commonly used in jewelry?
Freshwater, Akoya, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls dominate the fine jewelry market.
Which type of pearl has the best luster?
Akoya pearls are known for having the sharpest, most mirror-like luster of all cultured pearls.