For centuries the black pearl has captivated pearl collectors and treasure hunters alike. And up until recently a strand of exotic black pearls could fetch $150,000+. Thankfully today consumers have several options if they wish to wear these mysterious gems.
Technically there are three types of black pearls:
Black Tahitian Pearls are the only natural black pearl.
Within the pearl industry, the term "black" is used to describe any pearl with a dark body color. In reality a truly black body color just doesn't exist in world of pearls. Instead what we see are dark greens, blues, purples, silver, gray and the most coveted coloration "peacock".
Below is a a small lot of very high quality Tahitian Pearls. Notice the range of colors, but no jet black pearls.
Green, blue, purple, cherry, teal, silver and more... All of these pearls could technically be referred to as "black pearls"
In general yes, black pearls are relatively rare and valuable, and thus expensive. They're only grown in one area of the world, and cultivating and harvesting them is a niche, specialized skill.
As little as 20 years ago, a fine strand of Tahitian pearls could cost upwards of $150,000+. Even today you could still spend $1000's for a pair of Tahitian pearl earrings in traditional retail.
However direct-to-consumer brands like Pearls Of Joy are importing pearls direct from French Polynesia and offering comparable pearls for a fraction of the price. With this business model fine grade black pearl necklaces are now within reach of the average consumer.
Black Pearl Price Range:
The Perfect Strand of Black Pearls
Exotic Black Pearls Without The 10x Markup?...
...Is it possible?
Our direct-to-consumer business model means the same quality as the big luxury brands, but a fraction of the cost.
Depending on the type of pearl, black pearls are either created using treatments(dyes, irradiation) or in the case of Tahitian pearls,the black-lipped Pinctada margaritifera is responsible for the mysterious dark coloration.
Interestingly the color of pearl produced is influenced by the host oysters shell color. If the inside if the shell displays greens or blues, these colors are likely to show up in the pearl. However Mother Nature is still charge and there are no guarantees in pearl farming. Which is what makes the rarest colors so valuable.
Black Freshwater(China) and black Akoya pearls(Japan) are produced with dyes and treatments. The real magic is taking place in French Polynesia with the production of Tahitian pearls. Not only are the colors natural and unique, but it's also a completely sustainable practice. Making these pearls the only "green" gemstone in the world.
Sustainable Tahitian Pearl Farming with Kamoka Pearl Farm
The exotic colors of the Black Tahitian Pearl
When culturing a Tahitian pearl, technicians insert a small square of donor mantle tissue with a mother of pearl shell bead. Mantle tissue will influence the pearl's color; depending on colors present in the shell of the donor mollusk. It may lead to shades of plum, green, blue, or gray depending on the tissue used. As well as body color black Tahitian pearls often exhibit strong overtones of green, red, aubergine or peacock. The end result is a pearl that boasts a dark body color and overtones that are only present in black Tahitian pearls.
An example of ultra-colorful dyed freshwater pearls.
Yes, but it isn't always easy... Treated pearls tend to be far more uniform in color than Tahitian pearls, which tend to show some natural variation.
Another clue is the drill hole of the pearl. When pearls are dyed, the color will naturally collect in this space and show slightly darker. Looking directly in the drill hole you may also see a darkened nucleus, but this can be hard spot on smaller pearls.
In the last few years we've witnessed a flood of online sellers selling selling dyed Freshwater pearls as Tahitian pearls. We've seen this on Ebay, Amazon and even big name websites. Reputable jewelers will disclose whether the pearl is a Tahitian or dyed Akoya or Freshwater pearl, but it's always best to do your own research to better understand exactly what it is you're purchasing.
It should come as no surprise but our #1 recommended source for fine quality black pearls is Pearls of Joy. Since 2003 Pearls of Joy has been importing pearls direct from the source.
The Perfect Strand of Black Pearls
Exotic Black Pearls Without The 10x Markup?...
...Is it possible?
Our direct-to-consumer business model means the same quality as the big luxury brands, but a fraction of the cost.
