What are black pearls? Introducing their characteristics, how to choose them, and examples of how to coordinate them

Black pearls are pearls harvested from black lipped oysters. They come in a variety of colors, including black, green, and red, and are popular for their dazzling appearance.

This article explains the characteristics of black pearls in the following sections:

• What are black pearls? Basic characteristics
• Evaluation points for determining the value of black pearls
• Things to note when purchasing black pearls

If you watch until the end, you will understand what black pearls are and will want to experience their charm.

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What are black pearls? Basic characteristics explained

Black pearls are pearls with a black base and a variety of colors including green and blue. 95 % of them are cultivated in Tahiti in the South Pacific, so they are also known as "Tahitian pearls."

They are loved for their dignified and noble beauty, setting them apart from the soft shine of Japanese Akoya pearls.

Here, we will explain the characteristics of black pearls in detail from the following four points.

• Mother of Black Pearl
• Black pearl production area
• The birth of black pearls and the history of their cultivation
• The meaning of black pearl

Learning about the history and characteristics behind their beauty will deepen your understanding of black pearls and make them feel more familiar to you.

Mother of Black Pearl

The mother shell of black-lipped pearls is a bivalve mollusc called the black-lipped oyster. Black-lipped pearls are named after the black-lipped oyster from which they are harvested.

Black lipped oysters require a warm environment with seawater temperatures of 24 to 29 °C to grow , and often live in the ocean or on coral reefs at depths of about 10m . They prefer tropical and subtropical climates, and in Japan they are commonly found in the waters south of the Kii Peninsula, Okinawa, and around Miyakojima.

The shells are large , averaging 10-15cm in size, with some giant ones reaching up to 30cm . The size of the pearl is proportional to the size of the shell, so black pearls are larger, averaging 8-12mm, compared to Akoya pearls , which are 7-8mm .

Black pearl production area

More than 95 % of black pearls are cultivated in Tahiti , and are also called "Tahitian pearls."

Tahiti, which belongs to French Polynesia, is surrounded by seas rich in marine plankton, making it an ideal place for black pearls to grow. The water temperature remains just right, allowing the pearls' nacre to form thin, beautiful curls.

Maintaining healthy mother oysters is essential to the formation of beautiful pearls. At the black pearl farms in Tahiti, the pearls are pulled from the sea, polished, and adjusted, and the growth is monitored with meticulous care.

Even so, only 25 % of the pearls are produced , and only 20 to 30 % are high -quality pearls .

The birth of black pearls and the history of their cultivation

Black pearls have a long history, and there are no detailed records of how they were discovered. However, it is recorded that during the Age of Discovery (15th century), the Spanish discovered black pearls in Mexico and brought them back to Europe.

In other words, black pearls existed in Mexico around the 15th century.

However, the discovery of high-quality black pearls was rare, and inferior pearls were only used for making shirt buttons. The arrival of Japan changed the history of black pearls.

Japan successfully cultivated black pearls on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa in 1914. Later, in 1960 , Japanese Mr. Churoku Muroi brought the technique to Tahiti and successfully cultivated them there.

Today, black pearl production has taken root in Tahiti as a cultured industry of which it is a source of pride.

The meaning of black pearl

There are three meanings for black pearls:

• Stick to your resolve
• continuation
• Ability to execute

Carrying it as a talisman will give you courage and positive power when you achieve a big goal or face a new challenge.

It is also believed to have the effect of warding off evil spirits, and was also used to pray for safe childbirth for women.

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Difference between black pearls and black pearls

Black lipped pearls and black pearls are often confused, but there are two clear differences between them:

• Black-lipped pearls are organic gemstones that grow inside black-lipped oysters.
• Black pearls are a general term for pearls that are black in color, including artificial ones.

Black pearls is a term used exclusively for pearls harvested from natural and cultured black-lipped oysters.

On the other hand, black pearls refer to all pearls that are black in color, including those that have been artificially painted black. In many cases, black pearls refer to artificially made glass or plastic pearls, so you need to be careful when purchasing pearls.

Please refer to the following article for further details.
Explain the differences between black pearls and black lipped pearls in 4 points! We also introduce how to choose the right jewelry for you and the occasions when you should wear them.

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Seven evaluation points that determine the value of black pearls

The following seven points are used to determine the value of black pearls :

• color
• shape
• Size
• Scratches
• Related
• Shine
• Rolling

The evaluation of black pearls is based on a comprehensive assessment of the seven elements listed above .

Here, we will go into detail on each item. By the time you finish reading, you will have a better understanding of how black pearls are evaluated and will be able to select high-quality pearls.

color

The color of black pearls comes from the red, yellow, and green pigments present in the mother oyster. The combination of pigments varies from pearl to pearl, resulting in a variety of colors appearing on the surface of the pearl.

Furthermore, light is repeatedly refracted and reflected within the nacre, producing a variety of interference colors.

The most highly valued are the peacock green black pearls, which resemble peacock feathers. The pearls have a deep green body with red interference colors, creating a beautiful gradation of two colors.

Generally speaking, the stronger the red interference color, the higher the rating, and the closer it is to black, the lower the rating.

shape

There are many different types of black lipped pearls, including distortion-free round, elliptical semi-round, and circular with lines running through the center of the pearl. This is caused by the active internal movement of the black lipped oyster, which causes the pearl to move inside.

The closer to a perfect circle the pearl is, the higher the rank, but due to the characteristics of the black lipped pearl oyster mentioned above, it is extremely difficult to harvest perfectly round pearls. Slightly crushed oval pearls are called semi-round pearls, and are valued just as highly as round pearls.

Keshi pearls are particularly rare. They do not have a nucleus and are mostly made up of nacre, so they are characterized by irregularities similar to freshwater pearls. Keshi pearls only account for 1-2 % of cultured pearls, and no two are the same shape.

Please refer to the following article for more information on Keshi pearls.
Are Keshi pearls rare? We explain the points that determine their appeal and value, and tips for choosing accessories.

Size

The majority of black pearls are 8 to 16 mm in size. Larger ones can reach 18 mm , which is larger than Akoya pearls, which are 7 to 8 mm .

Although it depends on the quality of the roll and shine, generally speaking, larger fish are more expensive. The reason why larger fish are more expensive is due to the difficulty of cultivating them.

Black pearl cultivation requires approximately 36 months of cultivation of the mother oyster, and a further 18 months from the nucleus insertion.

During the cultivation period, there are many problems such as the mother oysters expelling their nuclei or becoming infected with diseases, and the larger the pearl, the more difficult it is to cultivate. For this reason, large black pearls are highly prized and fetch high prices on the market.

However, because larger pearls have a strong presence, Japanese people prefer more modest sizes of around 10mm . Smaller pearls are also easier to wear for special occasions.

Scratches

Since black pearls are grown in nature, some scratches are unavoidable. In particular, depressions on the surface, called "dimples," are a common phenomenon seen on pearls.

Pearls also often have wrinkles and dents.

The smoother and more flawless the stone is, the higher its rank, but it is not easy to come across due to its rarity. Also, the fewer scratches and dimples there are, the higher the price.

Since most scratches occur during the nacre formation stage, they are seen as proof that they are natural gemstones and are used without concern.

Related

A single strand necklace contains 35 to 45 pearls , arranged to balance their size, luster, and shape. No two black pearls are the same, as they grow in nature.

For this reason, skilled craftsmen assess the individual characteristics of each pearl and arrange them accordingly, calculating their compatibility.

Even if a pearl has the perfect size and luster, it cannot show off its beauty if the interlocking is not done properly. To create the most beautiful interlocking possible, you need skills backed by experience.

Basically, place the largest pearl in the center and place the pearls on either side evenly. The more uniform the size of all the pearls, the higher the rating.

Shine

The shine that appears on the surface of black pearls is called "luster." Luster is also called interference color, and is the luster that is emitted by the reflection and refraction of light that penetrates the nacre.

The thicker the nacre, the more complex the reflection and refraction, and the more beautiful the shine you can expect. With good quality shine, your face will be reflected clearly and without distortion when you look closely.

Among black pearls, those with a green body and red luster are called "peacock green" and are rated as the highest quality. The stronger the red luster, the higher the value.

For more information about peacock green, please refer to the following article.
What are the highest quality black pearls? A thorough explanation of their characteristics, evaluation points that determine their value, and prices

Rolling

The thickness of the nacre that makes up the pearl, including black pearls, is called the "winding." Pearls are made up of overlapping layers of nacre that form a circle around the nucleus.

The thicker the nacre, the more complex the refraction and reflection of light, producing a beautiful luster (interference colors). For this reason, a thick nacre is essential to a beautiful luster.

In addition, pearls with thicker nacre tend to be less susceptible to deterioration and changes over time. Discoloration can be prevented with proper care, but focusing on the thickness of the nacre will help pearls maintain their beauty for longer.

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Explanation of the grades of black pearls

Pearls, including black pearls , do not have a grade system that corresponds to the 4Cs of diamonds . In Japan, pearl evaluations are mainly carried out by two places: the Pearl General Research Institute and the Pearl Science Institute.

Although the evaluation criteria vary, the Pearl Research Institute places emphasis on the following five points .

• Rolling
• shape
• Gloss (shininess)
• Scratches
• Finishing

The above points are rated on a 5- point scale to determine the overall grade. Particular emphasis is placed on "roll," "luster," and "flaws," and the better the three items are, the higher the grade will be.

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When to use black pearls? Explaining recommended wearing occasions

Black pearl accessories can be worn in a wide range of situations, from formal to everyday. Although their cool coloring makes them reminiscent of funerals, they also look great with casual clothing.

Black pearls can add a luxurious feel to casual outfits such as T -shirts and denim, allowing you to enjoy an elegant look.

A single pearl necklace has a strong presence, so it is popular to coordinate with other jewelry. A single pearl necklace or brooch can also be worn with casual office wear.

There are no taboo situations for black pearls, but they should be avoided at weddings because they are strongly associated with black formal wear. Older people often think of black pearls as accessories used for eulogies.

Related articles
Can black pearls be worn on a daily basis? Examples of outfits for different age groups and points to note
Is it bad to wear black pearls at a funeral? A thorough explanation of the etiquette and selection you need to know

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What age is suitable for black pearls?

Black pearl jewelry can be worn by people of any age, but it is especially popular among women over 40. There is a custom of calling the 30th wedding anniversary the "pearl wedding," so many people wear black pearl jewelry to commemorate the occasion.

In addition, the coolness and elegance of black pearls are suitable for women who have matured on the inside, and will bring out their adult charm. After the age of 40 , the number of women who prefer the gorgeousness of black pearls over the softness of Akoya pearls is increasing.

Necklaces and brooches in particular are popular purchases, as they can be used for everything from formal occasions to everyday occasions.

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Price range of black pearls

The market price for black pearls is as follows:

• Necklace: 80,000 yen to 3.1 million yen
• Ring: 10,000 to 1 million yen
• Pierced earrings: 40,000 to 700,000 yen

Jewelry made with black pearls has a tendency to change in price depending on the size and luster. Items from luxury brands such as Mikimoto and TASAKI are also rising in price.

While inexpensive items can be purchased for a few tens of thousands of yen, expensive accessories can cost as much as hundreds of thousands of yen, so be sure to decide on your budget first.

Additionally, black pearls come in a wide range of sizes, from 8mm to 16mm, but Japanese people tend to prefer more modest designs, with 10mm being the most popular.

The average price for a single strand pearl necklace of around 10mm is between 300,000 and 700,000 yen. If you want to keep the price down, we recommend choosing a smaller size while maintaining the same luster and luster grade.

For more information on the price of black pearls, please refer to the following article:
The latest market price of black pearls explained by item and brand! How to buy them cheaply and what to be careful of after purchase?

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How to choose black pearl jewelry and examples of coordination

Black pearls can be worn for formal occasions as well as for everyday wear, and they add a luxurious aura to the wearer. Their brilliant shine makes them suitable for formal occasions and they exude a mysterious beauty.

Here we will explain how to choose from four types of accessories using black pearls and give tips on coordinating them.

• necklace
• ring
• Piercings
• brooch

By the time you read to the end, you will understand how to choose the black pearls that suit you and will have fun coordinating your outfits.

necklace

When choosing a black pearl necklace, it is important to choose the right size of pearl. Larger pearls have a stronger presence and more glamor, so smaller pearls are preferred for ceremonial occasions.

The appropriate size for Akoya pearls is said to be 7 to 8 mm, but for black pearls, a size of around 10 mm is preferable.

You also need to consider the balance between the size of the pearl and your body type. Generally, Japanese people tend to be small and slender, so it's not uncommon for large pearls to float.

For a standard body type, individuals around 10mm in size tend to suit the shape best.

To bring out the beauty of black pearls, we recommend V-neck or other low-cut clothing. Pair them with a white top to create a contrast between black and white.

Cherish the presence of black pearls and enjoy coordinating your outfit with a necklace as the centerpiece.

ring

When choosing a black pearl ring, choose a design that uses a single pearl. A single pearl is suitable for both wearing alone and as a layered piece of jewelry.

We recommend starting with a simple single pearl so that you can enjoy layering it with diamonds and other stones.

It is also important to coordinate your outfit with other jewelry. Even a single black pearl has a strong presence and shines brilliantly.

Depending on the design of the necklace, earrings, or earrings, the imbalance may be more pronounced.

Consider coordinating it with other jewelry and choose a combination that will bring out the beauty of your black pearls. It is best to choose black pearl accessories or other understated designs.

Piercings

Black pearl earrings are the second most popular accessory after necklaces. Single pearls are especially popular and can be worn with a wide range of outfits, from formal to casual at work and everyday.

Unlike necklaces and rings, earrings are difficult to layer, so we recommend choosing a design that is flashy. Designs with diamonds or yellow gold will be gorgeous, while platinum or white gold will shine stylishly.

Smaller ones, around 10mm in size, can be used in any situation.

To show off the pearls in your ears, it is best to wear your hair up . An updo makes your ears look better and highlights the beauty of your earrings.

brooch

Black pearl brooches are generally worn on the collar of a suit. Many of the designs feature a single pearl as the main focus , and larger pearls are used compared to necklaces and rings.

While the size of the pearls can be extravagant for rings and necklaces, brooches are not too flashy and allow you to enjoy a more subdued look. Also, the black pearls used in brooches are round in shape to highlight the beauty of the single pearl.

When incorporating it into your everyday wardrobe, try wearing just the brooch with a plain black or white top. The luster of the black pearl will sparkle and complete an elegant look with a simple outfit.

Black and white go well with black-lipped pearls, further enhancing their brilliance.

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Three things to note when purchasing black pearls

There are three things to keep in mind when purchasing black pearls:

• Buy from a trusted store
• Decide your budget in advance
• Protect your items from deterioration with proper care and storage

Demand for black pearls is on the rise worldwide, and prices continue to soar. Due to the pearl boom in China and the expansion of men's accessories, high-quality pearls are especially in short supply.

This has led to an increase in the circulation of low-quality pearls and imitations, so care must be taken when purchasing.

Black pearl jewelry is generally expensive. In order to avoid regretting your purchase, it is important to acquire the correct knowledge when choosing pearls.

If you read to the end, you will learn useful knowledge for purchasing black pearls.

Buy from a trusted store

Buy black pearls from a trusted store.

Low-quality pearls and imitation pearls are circulating around the world and are sold at high prices. It is difficult to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit pearls, and anyone can have a chance of buying a fake.

The only way to ensure you get quality pearls is to buy from a reputable specialist store.

You can shop with confidence from brands with a proven track record, such as MIKIMOTO and TASAKI. Since there are differences between photos and the actual product on online shops, it is safer to choose expensive pearls at a physical store.

It is also important that the pearl comes with an appraisal certificate from the highly reliable "Pearl General Research Institute" or "Pearl Science Institute."

Decide your budget in advance

Before purchasing black pearls, determine your budget. Pearls are naturally grown and come in a wide range of qualities.

There is a wide range of brands that sell pearls, so you can shop according to your budget. If you decide on a budget before deciding on a rank, you can enjoy shopping without straining yourself.

When purchasing, tell the staff your budget, not the rank of pearl you want. Our experienced staff will suggest high-quality pearls within your budget.

By listening to suggestions and carefully selecting, you can make a purchase without regrets.

Protect your items from deterioration with proper care and storage

Black-lipped pearls are organic gemstones grown from black-lipped oysters. Organic gemstones are prone to aging, and discoloration and fading can occur over time.

However, with some ingenuity, it is possible to prevent these changes over time. If you take good care of your pearls and pay attention to how you store them, they can maintain their beauty for around 20 to 30 years.

First, wipe it off with a soft cloth after use to remove any dirt. Sweat and oils from the skin can cause discoloration.

It is vulnerable to ultraviolet rays and the effects of sunlight can cause fading, so it is important to store it in a dark place. Avoid places with high temperatures to prevent cracking.

Also, storing your jewelry in a jewelry box will help protect it from external damage.

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Not just black pearls! Check out the appeal of other pearls too!

The differences between black pearls and other pearls are as follows:

Akoya pearls come in soft colors, including white, and have a more subdued shine than black pearls. They are small, measuring 7 to 8 mm, making them a pearl that is easily appreciated by the delicate Japanese.

Additionally, most black pearls are semi-round or baroque in shape, but Akoya pearls are nearly perfectly round.

White South Sea pearls are more brilliant than black South Sea pearls. Many of them are over 10mm in size, and there are many larger ones than black South Sea pearls.

Like black pearls, the color comes from the color scheme of the mother oyster, but they also have elegant hues such as silver and gold.

Freshwater pearls do not require a nucleus for cultivation and often have an irregular baroque shape. As multiple pearls are cultivated in one oyster, they are distinct from black-lipped pearls, which are cultivated as a single pearl.

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Three Frequently Asked Questions About Black Pearls

Below are three frequently asked questions about black pearls .

• What is the difference between black pearls and white pearls?
• Does Mikimoto have black pearl necklaces?
• Why are black pearls so expensive?

We have explored black pearls in depth, but some people may still have questions. In order to explain the characteristics of black pearls in an easy-to-understand way, we have answered the questions that many people have.

If you watch until the end, you will have a deeper understanding of black pearls and will want to try touching them for yourself.

What is the difference between black pearls and white pearls?

Black pearls are organic gemstones grown in the black-lipped bivalve oyster, while white pearls are a general term for white pearls, including both real and imitation.

White pearls often refer to imitations made from glass or plastic.

White pearls are sold at low prices and are easy to distinguish from real pearls, but you should be careful of pearls labeled as "shell pearls."

Shell pearls are a type of imitation pearl made by processing shells to resemble pearls. They are made to look as close to the real thing as possible by using a paint called "shell essence."

Be careful not to mistake it for the real thing.

Does Mikimoto have black pearl necklaces?

Mikimoto also carries black pearl necklaces. They have a wide selection of luxurious accessories, including simple single pearl necklaces and formal single strand pearl necklaces.

There are also necklaces with pearls of different grades, so you can purchase according to your budget. Because Mikimoto only deals in high-quality pearls, you are sure to find a piece of jewelry that will last a lifetime.

Why are black pearls so expensive?

Black pearls are expensive because they are extremely difficult to produce . It takes five years to cultivate them, including the cultivation of the mother oyster, and there is only a 25% chance of a pearl growing.

Only 2-3% of pearls are of high quality and are expected to fetch high prices. Because of their rarity, they are also expensive.

In addition, because black lipped oysters have active internal organ movements, it is extremely difficult to find pearls that are nearly perfectly round. In recent years, due to the pearl boom, the price of pearls as a whole has been rising, and this upward trend is expected to continue in the future.

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Summary: Black pearls are pearls that are mainly produced in Tahiti! Find the one that's right for you

Black pearls are organic gemstones that have been loved for a long time, fascinated by the beauty of their bodies and interference colors. 95 % of the pearls in circulation are produced in Tahiti, where they are carefully cultivated in the warm and calm seas.

On the other hand, there are many problems with oysters dying or becoming infected with diseases during the growth stage, and the production volume is not very large. As a result, pearls are very rare.

They can be used for a wide range of occasions, from weddings and funerals to everyday use, and are especially popular among women over 40. Since they can be used by people of all ages, once you have one accessory that you like, you can use it for the rest of your life .

Find your very own special black pearl to accompany you for the rest of your life.

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