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Akoya Pearls

Classic Akoya Pearl Jewelry Direct From Japan

Akoya pearl jewelry is loved for its mirror-like luster, perfectly round shapes, classic colors of white or black, along with easy-to-wear sizes that range from 5.0mm to 9.5mm. Sourced directly from the pearl farms of Japan. Our Akoya pearl necklaces and Akoya pearl chokers, earrings, bracelets, and Akoya pearl pendants are hand-knotted on fine silk and finished with solid 14kt gold clasps and mountings.

Read More:Akoya Pearl Buying Guide

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Why we only sell Japanese Akoya pearls

The finest Akoya pearls are farmed in Japan, where strict care standards have been upheld for generations of farmers. The cold waters of the Pacific Ocean are perfect for slowing the metabolism of the oysters, causing nacre to be laid down slowly, resulting in its mirror-like luster and superior durability. Our founder, Kevin Canning, sources our Japanese Akoya pearls from the top producers in the region, famous for supplying pearls to renowned jewelers such as Mikimoto's and Tiffany & Co., ensuring that our clients are choosing from the finest Akoya pearls Japan has to offer.

Read More: Akoya Pearl Buying Guide

How much do Akoya pearls cost?

Akoya pearl price can start as low as $260 for a black Akoya pearl bracelet, to as high as $17,710 for a matched set of Hanadama Akoya pearls measuring 9.0-9.5mm. Akoya prices will vary widely depending on the jewelry style, pearl quality and size of the pearls. For shoppers comparing Japanese Akoya pearl necklaces, prices range from $330 for our 5.5mm black Akoya strands to $14,220 for the largest and rarest 10.0-10.5mm white Akoya pearl necklaces, with our most popular 7.0-7.5mm size priced around $2,190 depending on the length you choose.

Read More: How Much Do Pearls Cost?

Akoya Pearls Frequently Asked Questions

What are Akoya pearls and where are they grown?

Akoya pearls are saltwater cultured pearls primarily grown in Japan and noted for round shapes and bright, reflective luster. They are the classic white pearl used in traditional strands and pearl stud earrings.

Read More: Akoya Pearl Buying Guide

What is Hanadama grade in Akoya pearls?

Hanadama describes premium Akoya pearls that meet strict standards for luster, nacre thickness, and clean surface quality. Hanadama Akoya pearl necklaces and earrings are certified by the Pearl Science Laboratory of Tokyo, Japan, and each strand or matched pair of pearls comes with its own individual certification.

Read More: Hanadama Pearls

What sizes and colors are available in Akoya pearls?

Most Akoya pearls range from 5.0 to 9.5mm in size. Body color is usually white to cream, with rose or silver overtones. Natural color options and color-treated black Akoya pearls exist but are less common.

View: Pearl Size Guide

How do Akoya pearls compare to freshwater and South Sea pearls?

Compared with Freshwater, Akoya pearls tend to show sharper luster and perfectly round shapes at similar sizes. South Sea pearls are larger and rarer, with a softer glow and higher price on average.

Read More: Guide to Pearl Types

Do Akoya pearls come with certificates?

Select Hanadama strands include third-party reports. Other Akoya items are graded in house using the GIA 7 Value Factors noted on each product page.

Do Akoya pearls require special care?

Yes. Avoid chemicals and abrasives. Wipe with a soft damp cloth after wear and store separately in a soft pouch. Wear often to keep nacre hydrated.

Read More: Pearl Care Guide

Are Japanese pearls the same as Akoya pearls?

Yes, the term 'Japanese pearls' refers directly to saltwater Akoya pearls that are farmed in Japan. They are often also called 'Mikimoto pearls', however this is a misnomer as Mikimoto offers many different pearl types.

Read More: Are Mikimoto Pearls Worth It?

How are Akoya pearls graded?

Akoya pearls are graded using the A-AAA Quality grading scale, where 'A' represents the lowest, commercial grade of pearls, and 'AAA' pearls are the top 1-3% of each yearly harvest. Hanadama Akoya pearls are selected from 'AAA' Quality harvests for having the brightest luster, cleanest surfaces and thickest nacre, and are sent for special testing and certification at the Pearl Science Laboratory of Tokyo, Japan.

Read More: How We Grade Akoya Pearls

Shop Now: Hanadama Pearls

What is the difference between white and black Akoya pearls?

White Akoya pearls are naturally colored, with pastel overtones of rose, silver or cream, and are the most popular choice for shoppers because of their classic look. Black Akoya pearls are color-treated / dyed, and typically will display a Midnight Blue-Black or Greenish Black coloring that is very uniform in appearance, and visually striking.

Shop Now: Black Pearl Necklaces

Where is the best place to buy Akoya pearls?

The best place to buy Akoya pearls is with an online vendor that specializes in pearls, preferably one who buys their pearls directly from Japan, adheres to the A-AAA Grading Scale, and who offers a generous return policy. At Pearls of Joy, we source our Akoya pearls from the top producing farms in Japan that also supply Mikimoto and Tiffany & Co., and create all of our Akoya pearl necklaces, earrings and more at our workshop, to order. Our 100-Day Return and Exchange Guarantee ensures all of our customers have ample time to try on their pearls, and make sure their new jewelry is perfect for them.

Read More: The Best Places To Buy Akoya Pearl Jewelry

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