Tahitian pearls are the only naturally dark cultured pearls in the world.
Protected designation
Cultivated exclusively in French Polynesia. Main areas: Tuamotu-Gambier (85%), Society Islands, Marquesas.
Pinctada margaritifera
The dark colour is entirely natural, from the oyster's pigmented mantle. Up to 30 cm diameter. 18-24 months to form a pearl.
Colours: much more than "black"
- Peacock: intense green with pink and aubergine — most sought-after
- Aubergine: deep purple with pink or red
- Blue: dark with bluish, sometimes silver
- Bronze/Cherry: red-brown with golden
Size and shape
8-18 mm, average 9-12 mm. Shapes: round, semi-round, oval, drop, button, baroque and circled.
Price
Earrings from 200 euros. Quality 9-10 mm necklace from 1,500-2,000 euros.
