Top 3 Japanese pearl brands! How to choose foreign brands and pearl jewelry
Posted by GINZAREPEARL

The following three companies rank highly in the Japanese pearl brand rankings.
MIKIMOTO |
・The brand that was the first in the world to successfully cultivate pearls and is used by the Imperial Family - The design is elegant and can be used for formal occasions. |
TASAKI |
・We also cultivate pearls in-house ・Not only is it popular for its high quality, but also for its unique design |
WAKO |
・Jewelry brand from Hiroshima ・We offer high-quality pearl items at reasonable prices. |
If you are looking for pearl jewelry, we recommend the three brands listed above. You can find jewelry that can be used for a variety of occasions, such as weddings, funerals, formal occasions, and casual occasions.
Also, pearl jewelry is sold not only in Japan but also by overseas brands, so it is important to know how to choose .
In this article, you will learn the following:
What you'll learn in this article
- Top 3 Japanese pearl brands
- 6 recommended pearl brands loved in Japan
- Four things to look for when choosing pearls other than the brand
By the end of the article, you will understand the characteristics of domestic and international pearl brands and be able to decide which brand to choose.
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Top 3 Japanese pearl brands
The top three pearl brands representing Japan are as follows:
- MIKIMOTO
- TASAKI
- WAKO
The above three brands are world-famous Japanese companies. Here we will explain the characteristics of each brand in detail.
If you watch until the end, you will understand Japan's leading pearl brand and become more knowledgeable about pearls.
MIKIMOTO
MIKIMOTO has been cultivating pearls since 1893. It is a globally recognized brand, having been the first to establish the techniques for cultivating pearls.
Mikimoto grows the highest quality Akoya pearls, and only certifies those that meet its own standards as Mikimoto pearls. Mikimoto pearls are known for their high quality luster, color, and shape, and are also used by the Imperial Household.
Mikimoto is a brand suitable for formal occasions, and is one of the most trustworthy pearl brands.
Please refer to the following for the average price of Mikimoto pearl items.
kinds |
Price range |
necklace |
400,000 to 4,000,000 yen |
Piercings |
46,000 yen to 3 million yen |
ring |
100,000 yen to 2.4 million yen |
TASAKI
TASAKI is a brand that has been producing high-quality pearls since establishing its pearl farm in 1933. In 1970, the company succeeded in artificially harvesting the Mabe oyster, which was on the verge of extinction.
Tasaki sets strict standards for luster, shape, color, shape, size, and amount of blemishes to use high-quality pearls in its jewelry. In addition to the quality of its pearls, the company is also renowned for its eye-catching designs.
At Tasaki, you will find fascinating jewelry that will break your perception of pearl items. Please refer to the following for the average price of pearl items.
kinds |
Price range |
necklace |
460,000 to 1,500,000 yen |
Piercings |
100,000 yen to 1,000,000 yen |
ring |
100,000 yen to 4.2 million yen |
WAKO
WAKO is a Hiroshima-based brand founded in 1953. With knowledge gained from dealing with gemstones for about 70 years, the brand sources high-quality pearls from both within Japan and overseas and uses them in its jewelry.
Wako has a policy of "providing high quality at a reasonable price," and while producing jewelry, it is attractive. You can purchase not only Akoya pearls, but also black pearl jewelry.
Wako has many simple and sophisticated designs, and has items that are easy to use even in situations where formal attire is required. Please refer to the following for the average price of pearl items.
kinds |
Price range |
necklace |
220,000 to 400,000 yen |
Piercings |
56,000 yen to 300,000 yen |
ring |
100,000 yen to 230,000 yen |
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6 recommended pearl brands loved in Japan
Below are six recommended pearl brands that are also loved in Japan.
- Tiffany & Co.
- CHANEL
- CHAUMET
- YOKO LONDON
- Van Cleef & Arpels
- ALESSANDRA DONA
The six brands above are popular all over the world. Here we will explain the characteristics of each brand in detail.
If you watch until the end, you will understand the appeal of recommended pearl brands that are loved in Japan and deepen your knowledge about global brands.
Tiffany & Co.
Tiffany & Co. is a brand that was founded in New York in 1837. Up until now, the brand has consistently released collections of pearl items.
The pearls that Tiffany uses in its jewelry are freshwater pearls. Although it is a high-end brand, it sells them at a reasonable price, and is popular with many women.
Of particular note is the long pearl necklace, which is 203.2cm long, so you can choose to wear it doubled or tripled.
Tiffany is a recommended brand for those who want to enjoy pearl items casually. Please refer to the following for the average price of pearl items.
kinds |
Price range |
necklace (Highly designed item) |
140,000 to 150,000 yen (280,000 yen to 9.4 million yen) |
Piercings |
66,000 yen to 2.5 million yen |
ring |
160,000 yen to 1,500,000 yen |
CHANEL
CHANEL is a luxury brand created by designer Coco Chanel. With an awareness of enjoying and playing with free fashion, she has incorporated imitation gemstones and pearls into her fashion.
There are many pieces of jewelry that Chanel has created using pearls. In particular, pearl items with the Coco mark are very popular as they serve as a fashion accent.
The pearls that Chanel uses are imitation, but due to the added value of being a luxury brand, they are more expensive. Please refer to the following for the average price of pearl items.
kinds |
Price range |
Choker |
170,000 to 250,000 yen |
necklace |
190,000 to 330,000 yen |
Piercings |
90,000 yen to 250,000 yen |
CHAUMET
CHAUMET has been active as a jeweler since the time of French Emperor Napoleon. The V-line motif jewelry, inspired by Empress Josephine, is a collection that remains popular today.
Chaumet jewelry is made using high-quality gemstones and pearls. They also release jewelry using mother-of-pearl, the iridescent layer that shines inside the shell.
Please refer to the following for the average price of Chaumet pearl items.
kinds |
Price range |
Mother of Pearl Necklace |
200,000 to 640,000 yen |
ring |
800,000 yen to 1,400,000 yen |
Head Ornament |
8.3 million yen |
YOKO LONDON
YOKO LONDON is a brand established in London in 1973. Its pearl items are produced in a London workshop, and the brand has now established itself as a high-end pearl jeweller.
Yoko London jewelry is characterized by a classical and elegant atmosphere. The key point is that Akoya pearls and South Sea pearls are used depending on the design, and it is easy to match with Japanese fashion.
Please refer to the following for the average price of Yoko London's pearl items.
kinds |
Price range |
One pearl necklace |
120,000 to 3.8 million yen |
necklace |
170,000 to 670,000 yen |
Piercings |
170,000 to 500,000 yen |
Van Cleef & Arpels
Van Cleef & Arpels is a brand that was founded in Paris in 1905. Two people from a family of jewelers became a married couple, founded the maison, and poured their passion into jewelry, which led to the brand growing into one of the world's top five jewelers.
Van Cleef & Arpels has gained support from women all over the world for its feminine designs and delicate processing techniques. Please refer to the following for the average price of pearl items.
kinds |
Price range |
Mother of Pearl Necklace |
250,000 to 13.5 million yen |
Piercings |
400,000 yen to 4,650,000 yen |
ring |
580,000 yen to 3,300,000 yen |
ALESSANDRA DONA
ALESSANDRA DONA is a brand that was launched by a woman who was born and raised in Venice and named after herself. It is a relatively new brand, but the designs are highly original and have an appeal that rivals that of long-established pearl brands.
In particular, her jewelry collection using black pearls harvested from the waters off Tahiti has attracted attention both at home and abroad. Please refer to the following for the average price of Alessandra Donna's pearl items.
kinds |
Price range |
necklace |
250,000 to 400,000 yen |
Piercings |
70,000 yen to 240,000 yen |
ring |
130,000 yen to 470,000 yen |
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Types of pearls used in Japanese pearl brand jewelry
The types of pearls used in Japanese pearl brand jewelry include Akoya pearls, black pearls, white pearls , etc. Akoya pearls are characterized by growing small, and are used in necklaces that can be worn for weddings, funerals, and other formal occasions .
Black South Sea pearls and white South Sea pearls are often used as accent pieces on single pearl necklaces and rings , taking advantage of their size . Even for the same type of pearl, designs vary depending on the Japanese pearl brand, so we recommend comparing the collections of each brand.
For more information on the different types of pearls, please see the following article.
A thorough explanation of the different types of pearls! Introducing their characteristics, differences, and how to tell them apart from fakes
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Four things to look for when choosing pearls other than the brand
There are four things to look at besides the brand when choosing pearls.
- quality
- Particle size and size
- color
- Necklace Length
It is important to choose pearl items based on brand, but there are other things to look out for as well. Here, we will explain in detail what to look for when choosing pearls, other than brand.
By watching until the end, you will understand the key points to consider when choosing pearls and be able to find your favorite item that you will not regret.
quality
When selecting pearls, pay attention to the quality. It is important to pay particular attention to the luster, shape and any blemishes on the pearl.
Luster refers to the shine of a pearl and is an item that determines its beauty . A pearl has a good luster if a clear silhouette is visible when an object is brought close to it.
The thickness of the nacreous layer that forms around the nucleus is called the "coil." The thicker it is, the better the coiling and the more durable it is.
The luster is an important factor that affects the luster of a pearl.
A pearl's blemishes refer to the unevenness that appears on its surface. Because pearls grow in environments such as the sea or lake, unevenness occurs during the formation process.
The fewer and less noticeable the flaws, the higher the quality of the pearl. For more information on pearl quality, please see the following article.
What is pearl quality? Points to consider when choosing beautiful pearls and how to care for them
Particle size and size
Another thing to look at when choosing pearls is the size of the pearls. The size standards vary depending on the type of pearl.
Akoya pearls are difficult to grow large, so the standard size is 5 to 8 mm. For necklaces for special occasions, the recommended size is 7 to 8 mm.
Akoya pearls between 2 and 6 mm are called baby pearls and are used for casual necklaces. Pearls over 8 mm are rare and expensive, but they are a size that looks good on adult women in their 40s and above.
Black South Sea pearls and white South Sea pearls tend to grow to be over 10mm in size. They are often used as accents for single pearl necklaces and rings, adding a touch of glamour to the chest and hands .
When looking for pearls, it is a good idea to choose a size that suits your purpose, outfit, and age.
color
Besides brand, another thing to look for when choosing pearls is color. The main types of pearl colors are:
- white
- cream
- pink
- blue
- green
- gold
- gray
- black
White and cream colors can be used for any occasion , such as weddings, funerals, formal occasions, office casual, and casual .
Pink and gold will impress those around you with your femininity and elegance, while gray and black are recommended when you want to create a calm and elegant image.
Some pearls have a mixture of multiple hues and some have an aurora effect. The depth of a pearl's color depends on the thickness of the nacre, so check the quality as well as the color.
Necklace Length
The appropriate necklace length varies depending on the occasion in which you will be using the pearl item.
Contents |
kinds |
wedding |
・40-45cm ・Can be worn in layers, double or triple ・Guests can also use long types such as 60cm |
Funerals, wakes, memorial services |
・40-45cm ・Avoid single grain types ・Avoid brand charms or diamonds |
Wedding receptions, after-parties, and alumni gatherings |
・40-45cm ・Over 60cm is also OK ・Can be worn in layers, double or triple |
Shrine visits, entrance ceremonies, and graduation ceremonies |
・40-45cm ・Long or stylish styles are OK, but make sure to keep the look formal. |
Pearl necklaces that are 40-45cm long are called princess. Princess pearl necklaces are long enough to fit around the neck and do not swing when you move.
Princess is a versatile length that can be used in a variety of situations, including occasions where proper etiquette is required, such as weddings and funerals.
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Three things to know when buying pearl jewelry from Japanese pearl brands
Here are three things you should know when purchasing pearl jewelry from Japanese pearl brands.
- Take care of it on a daily basis
- Learn etiquette for ceremonial occasions
- If you no longer use it, sell it as soon as possible.
If you get pearl jewelry from a Japanese pearl brand, please follow the above points. Here we will explain in detail what you should know after purchasing pearl items.
By reading to the end, you will understand how to use pearl jewelry and what precautions to take, so you can continue to use it properly.
Take care of it on a daily basis
If you purchase pearl jewelry from a Japanese pearl brand, make sure to take good care of it on a daily basis. Pearls are the product of the natural blessings of the mother oyster, and are more delicate than other gemstones.
If you neglect to take care of your pearls, they will develop scratches on the surface, turn yellow, and lose quality. When you get your pearl items, be sure to pay attention to the following points.
- Remove when doing housework or cooking
- Do not bathe while wearing it
- Do not wear them when engaging in water-related leisure activities
- Immediately wipe off any sweat, makeup or water droplets
- Wipe with a soft cloth after wearing
- If you are concerned about dirt, clean it thoroughly.
- Store in a pearl storage box to avoid UV rays.
- Do not store with other jewellery
- Avoid hot and humid environments
- Do not store near insect repellents or desiccants.
Daily care is especially important. Use a pearl luster cloth and gently wipe your pearls after wearing before returning them to their storage box.
If you have sweated a lot or are concerned about dirt, gently wipe the surface with a soft cloth that has been wrung out after soaking in lukewarm water. After that, wipe it dry with another soft cloth to remove any moisture.
Also, the boundaries between pearls and other gemstones or metals are prone to dirt accumulation, so be sure to clean them carefully.
Learn etiquette for ceremonial occasions
It is important to wear pearl jewelry in accordance with proper etiquette for ceremonial occasions. The appropriate type, color, and length of pearl jewelry will vary depending on the type of ceremonial occasion and the occasion in which it will be worn.
item |
wedding ceremony |
Funeral Wake Third Anniversary Memorial service |
Entrance Ceremony Graduation Ceremony Alumni Association |
Dinner Party Theater party |
Akoya pearls (White/Pink White) |
〇 |
〇 |
〇 |
〇 |
Akoya pearls Black pearl (Gray/Black) |
△ |
〇 |
△ |
〇 |
White South Sea Pearl (White Gold) |
〇 |
× |
〇 |
〇 |
Freshwater pearls |
× |
× |
〇 |
〇 |
Long Type Duplex and triplex Design Type |
× |
× |
〇 |
〇 |
White and pink-white Akoya pearls can basically be worn to any event. Having one will make it a versatile item that can be used in a variety of situations.
Some people believe that the grey and black colours of Akoya pearls and black lipped pearls are reminiscent of funerals , so care should be taken when wearing them for celebratory occasions.
Also, keep in mind that freshwater pearls, long pearls, and pearls with a high level of design are not appropriate for weddings or funerals.
If you no longer use it, sell it as soon as possible.
If you purchase pearl jewelry from a Japanese pearl brand and no longer use it, we recommend selling it as soon as possible.
Akoya pearls have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years . However, the speed at which they deteriorate can vary depending on their original quality and daily care.
Therefore, if you sell pearls before their quality deteriorates, you can get them for a high price.
If you feel like you have fewer opportunities to wear your clothes, for example, because you no longer attend weddings or your children have grown up and there are fewer formal events, it may be a good idea to sell them.
If you are looking to sell pearl items, be sure to find a store that has professional appraisers who can properly determine the value of pearls.
As the first pearl buying and selling store in Japan, Ginza Repearl has a professional appraiser who will assess the value of your pearls. If you have any Japanese pearl brand items, please feel free to contact us.
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4 Frequently Asked Questions About Japanese Pearl Brands
Below are four frequently asked questions about Japanese pearl brands.
- Where is the best place to buy pearls?
- What brand of pearls do you think of?
- What are some affordable brands of pearl necklaces?
- How much does a pearl necklace cost to last a lifetime?
Many people may still have questions about Japanese pearl brands. Here are some frequently asked questions about Japanese pearl brands along with answers.
By the end of this article, your doubts about Japanese pearl brands will be cleared and you will have a more positive attitude towards purchasing pearl jewelry.
Where is the best place to buy pearls?
If you are wondering where to buy pearls, here are some recommended places to buy them:
- Department stores
- Famous brand stores
There are several Japanese pearl brands in department stores. As they have passed the department store's inspection, there is a low risk of purchasing fake or imitation pearls.
Another benefit is that you can view items from multiple brands at once .
At famous brand stores, you can check out pearl items that are guaranteed to be of a certain level of quality. They have a wide selection of unique brand jewelry and offer excellent after-sales service .
Famous brand stores are recommended for people who already know which brand they want to buy. For more details, please see the following article.
Where is the best place to buy pearls? A thorough explanation of 9 places to buy them and things to be aware of
What brand of pearls do you think of?
Famous pearl brands include:
- MIKIMOTO
- TASAKI
Mikimoto and Tasaki cultivate their own pearls, and because they only use pearls that meet their strict standards , they offer high-quality jewelry.
If you want to buy pearl jewelry from a famous pearl brand, you should choose from the two above.
What are some affordable brands of pearl necklaces?
Here are some brands where you can buy pearl necklaces at affordable prices:
- UWAKAI PEARL
- Perlish
- HIROTAKA
- HASUNA
Uwakai Pearls is a brand that processes and sells jewelry made from pearls harvested in the Uwakai Sea in Ehime Prefecture . Necklaces for special occasions and single pearl necklaces are available at reasonable prices.
Parlish, Hirotaka, and Hasna are three brands that turn the pearls they purchase into highly designed jewelry . They are suitable for people who want a unique pearl necklace.
How much does a pearl necklace cost to last a lifetime?
The average price for a pearl necklace that will last a lifetime is around 100,000 to 300,000 yen . With 100,000 yen, you can purchase a necklace that can be worn for weddings, funerals, and other special occasions.
Also, if you can afford to spend around 300,000 yen, a high-quality 8mm Akoya pearl necklace will fit within your budget. It is recommended for those who want a necklace with beautiful luster and few scratches.
If you are thinking of purchasing a pearl necklace that will last a lifetime, make sure you have a solid budget in mind before searching.
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Summary: Japanese pearl brands are popular all over the world!
Let's take another look at the characteristics of Japanese pearl brands.
MIKIMOTO |
- Perfect for weddings, funerals and formal occasions ・The average price of the necklace is 400,000 to 4 million yen |
TASAKI |
・Popular for its high quality and edgy design ・The average price of the necklace is 460,000 to 1.5 million yen |
WAKO |
-Many simple and sophisticated designs ・The average price of a necklace is between 220,000 and 400,000 yen. |
Japanese pearl brand items are becoming increasingly popular around the world. The purchase price is also on the rise , so it is also attractive that you can sell them for cash after you no longer have opportunities to wear them.
The type, design, and price of pearl jewelry vary by brand. Please take a look at the pearl jewelry of the brands you are interested in after understanding the characteristics of the Japanese and overseas pearl brands introduced here.