#2021: Tahitian Cultured Pearl - White Marquise Diamond & Gold Articulated Dangle Earrings, 5302

Tahitian pearls, often called “Black Pearls” are found in the turquoise-colored lagoons of French Polynesia in the South Seas. The Pinctada margaritifera mollusk produces these fine black pearls. The Pinctada margaritifera or “black lipped” oyster is a giant tropical mollusk that can live for 30 years in the wild, can weigh up to 10 pounds, and can grow to reach over 12” in diameter, thus, resulting in larger pearls.

The opalescent black hue, shimmering with peacock green, grey, and purple overtones, of Tahitian pearls makes a sensual, smoldering statement in our jewelry designs. You will find that the consistency of color tone is highly durable with peacock tones being most valuable. Natural coloration yields shades of grey to black.

Tahitian pearls are usually found in sizes ranging from eight to thirteen millimeters; sizes up to and exceeding 20 millimeters are sometimes discovered, but are quite rare and highly prized. Tahitian pearls, like their South Sea cousins, come in a variety of shapes. As with South Sea pearls, nacre quality is the defining measure of quality and value.

On the A-D Cultured Tahitian Pearl Grading System, the pearls used in our designs are A to B. Nothing lower than B is utilized. This requires that the pearl be flawless on at least 70% of pearl’s surface and that only 30% of pearl’s surface may exhibit slight, concentrated imperfections. Only one or two deep inclusions are allowable and the pearl should drill or set nearly clean. The “luster” is high to very high.

Few gems offer greater drama than strands of pearls, dynamic for daytime or evening wear. Used individually or in combination with white or golden pearls, our black pearl creations depict superbly fashionable jewelry that, with proper care, will last for generations.