The Different Types of Pearls: A Guide to Nature’s Most Elegant Gem

Pearls have long been a symbol of elegance, grace, and timeless beauty. But did you know that not all pearls are created equal? From their origins in freshwater lakes to the deep saltwater seas, pearls come in many varieties - each with its own unique characteristics, colours, and charm.

If you are shopping with us at FV to find your next pearl piece and want to understand more about the type of pearl you are purchasing, or if you’re simply curious about these oceanic gems, here's everything you need to know about the different types of pearls.

1. Freshwater Pearls: Affordable and Versatile

✦ Origin: Primarily China

✦ Source: Freshwater Mussels

Freshwater pearls are the most abundant type of pearl and are known for their variety in colour and shape. They often come in oval, button, or baroque shapes, making them perfect for fashion-forward designs.

Colour: White, pink, lavender, peach, and dyed colours
Size: 2mm to 15mm
Lustre: Soft to moderate

Best For: Trendy, everyday wear with a wide range of styles and budgets

Fresh water pearls are featured across our Silver Perle, Steel Me and La Pierre collections.

2. Akoya Pearls: The Classic Choice

✦ Origin: Japan & China

✦ Source: Akoya Oyster (Pinctada fucata)

Akoya pearls are the quintessential white pearls most people picture when they think of traditional pearl jewellery. Known for their perfectly round shape and high-gloss finish, Akoya pearls are beloved for their elegance and are often used in necklaces, earrings, and bridal pieces.

Colour: White or cream, often with rose, silver, or ivory overtones
Size: 4mm to 10mm
Lustre: High, mirror-like

Best For: Classic, refined jewellery lovers

3. Tahitian Pearls: The Exotic Gem

✦ Origin: French Polynesia

✦ Source: Black-Lipped Oyster (Pinctada margaritifera)

Tahitian pearls are often referred to as "black pearls," though they actually come in a range of dark, natural colours. Their dramatic hues and larger size make them a favourite for statement pieces.

Colour: Black, green, grey, blue, peacock, aubergine
Size: 8mm to 18mm
Lustre: High, with iridescent overtones

Best For: Those who love bold, exotic, and luxurious designs

4. South Sea Pearls: The Cream of the Crop

✦ Origin: Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines

✦ Source: White and Golden-Lipped Oyster (Pinctada maxima)

South Sea pearls are the largest and often the most valuable pearls in the world. With their thick nacre and soft, satin-like lustre, they are prized by collectors and luxury jewellers alike.

Colour: White, silver, champagne, and deep gold
Size: 9mm to 20mm
Lustre: Soft, elegant glow

Best For: High-end, investment-quality jewellery pieces

5. Baroque Pearls: Perfectly Imperfect

✦ Origin: Both Freshwater and Saltwater

✦ Features: Irregular, asymmetrical shapes

Baroque pearls are celebrated for their organic, one-of-a-kind forms. No two baroque pearls are exactly alike, making them ideal for artists, designers, and anyone who wants something unique.

Colour: Varies widely
Size: All sizes
Lustre: Varies; often very high on surface curves

Best For: Artistic, contemporary jewellery lovers

We love the unique style of a baroque pearl, which is why you will find them in just a few pieces within our Silver Perle collection, perfectly paired with sterling silver.

6. Keshi Pearls: Pure Nacre, Pure Beauty

✦ Origin: Byproduct of pearl cultivation

✦ Features: Formed when oysters reject the nucleus

Keshi pearls are small, non-nucleated pearls made entirely of nacre. Despite their modest size, they shine brightly and have an intensely luminous surface.

Colour: White, grey, silver, gold, and more
Size: 2mm to 10mm
Lustre: Exceptional

Best For: Modern, high-lustre designs and unique statement pieces

If you love keshi pearls, you will find these beauties featured in a range of colours in our La Pierre and Silver Perle collections.

7. Mabe Pearls: Half-Round Beauties

✦ Origin: Japan, Indonesia, Australia

✦ Source: Grown against the inside of the oyster shell

Mabe pearls are dome-shaped and are often used in earrings and rings where a flat back is desirable. Though not fully spherical, they provide an affordable way to enjoy large pearl surfaces.

Colour: White, pink, silver, or blue
Size: Typically larger than 10mm
Lustre: High to moderate

Best For: Affordable luxury in bold, mounted settings

8. Imitation Pearls: Fashion Without the Price Tag

✦ Origin: Man-made (glass, plastic, shell)

✦ Features: Coated with synthetic materials for a pearlescent effect

Imitation pearls may look convincing from a distance but lack the depth, weight, and natural glow of real pearls. They’re great for costume jewellery but don’t hold any long-term value.

Colour: Any imaginable shade
Size: Wide range
Lustre: Shiny, often too perfect

Best For: Budget-friendly or costume jewellery

Imitation or man-made pearls give the natural look and style of a real pearl, but at a cheaper price point. We have a select few pieces of imitation pearls in our Perle and Steel Me collections.

Final Thoughts

Pearls may all look similar at first glance, but a closer look reveals a world of difference. From the perfect symmetry of Akoya pearls to the organic allure of baroque and Keshi types, there’s a pearl out there for every taste, budget, and occasion. Understanding the various types can help you choose a piece that reflects both your style and your values, while understanding the price difference of each design and their components.

Whether you're after everyday elegance or a show-stopping heirloom, pearls continue to offer beauty and sophistication like no other gem.

We love all things pearls and we are proud to have the most unique offering of pearl jewellery in Australasia. Explore all things FV pearls today.

We hope you will find something to wear, share and enjoy!

FV x