When we think of pearls, colors like off-white and cream instantly pop in the mind. But did you know the cultured pearl industry has managed to cultivate a rare and exotic looking black type called the Tahitian pearl?
It comes from the Pinctada margaritifera or black-lip pearl oyster and is extremely beautiful.
Unlike Akoya and black freshwater pearls which are treated or dyed to get the bold color, Tahitian pearls are naturally dark! Now isn’t that intriguing?
If you are fascinated by their unique color and planning to buy a piece of jewelry adorned with Tahitian pearls, here are a few interesting facts you should know.
1. Tahitian Pearls Do Not Come from Tahiti
Did the name make you think that Tahitian pearls come from Tahiti? You aren’t the first one to assume that, however, that’s not true. Pearl farming does not take place anywhere on the island. Having said that, Tahiti is the commercial hub of the majority of pearl farms located throughout French Polynesia. Most of the Tahitian pearl cultivation happens in low-lying coral atolls of the Tuamotu and Gambier Archipelago.
2. They Aren’t Actually Black
So, Tahitian pearls aren’t from Tahiti and their black color isn’t actually black?
Well, yes. They have a bold color that appears black but if you look closely, you will notice that they are not fully black. Each black-lip oyster will produce a different colored Tahitian pearl.
Some of the popular hues include silver, charcoal, green and brown. They are prized for their beautiful array of iridescent colors. Truly black Tahitian pearls exist but are extremely rare and expensive.
3. They Were Once the Rarest and Most Valuable Pearls
Among all the cultured pearl varieties, Tahitian pearls were once the rarest and most valuable pearls in the world.
While they continue to be more valuable than freshwater and Akoya pearls, the pearl farming market has made Tahitian pearls widely available and affordable. Thereby, reducing their value and rarity. A decade ago, a strand of Tahitian pearls would’ve costed a lot more than it does today.
4. Black-Lip Oysters Were Almost Hunted to Extinction
Tahitian pearls are obtained from black-lip oysters.
Just like the pearl, the inner shell of this oyster is quite attractive too. In fact, they were so popular that by early 20th century almost all oysters had been hunted just for their shell!
However, efforts were taken to conserve and repopulate the black-lip oysters before they became completely extinct.
5. Less Than 50% Tahitian Pearls Are Round in Shape
Tahitian pearls are bead nucleated.
This means the farmer will insert a round shell bead inside the oyster in an attempt to get a round-shaped pearl. While the bead increases the chances of obtaining a round pearl, less than 50% of these pearls will actually form a perfectly round shape.
The other shapes that it may end up forming are near round, baroque or circle. No matter what, Tahitian pearls are loved for their uneven shapes and exotic hues.
Did You Know?
Where the pearl forms inside the shell also determines its color. If the pearl forms near the inner part of the shell, it will be darker in color. Whereas those formed towards the outer section will be gray or silver.
Also Read: Top 5 Facts on Cultured Pearls
Top 5 Facts on Tahitian Pearls FAQs
- How to tell if a Tahitian pearl is real?Like most jewels, Tahitian pearls too have certain flaws; either in terms of color or shape. If you come across a flawless black pearl, in most probability it’ll be a fake one.
- Is it okay to get Tahitian pearls wet?Pearls are not the most durable gems. While coming in contact with water for a short period should be okay, wearing them in the shower, bath, swimming pool and ocean should be avoided at all costs.
- What do Tahitian pearls symbolize?Tahitian pearls symbolize hope, healing and positivity. They are also often associated with mystery and strength.
- What color of Tahitian pearl is most valuable?Although popularly called the black pearl, Tahitian pearls aren’t actually black. In fact, the most valuable Tahitian pearl is the one that features a dark green body and peacock overtones.
