Cultured or farmed pearls from pearl oysters and freshwater mussels make up the majority of those currently sold. Imitation pearls are also widely sold in inexpensive jewelry. Pearls have been harvested and cultivated primarily for use in jewelry but in the past were also used to adorn clothing.
The four major types of pearls are Akoya pearls, South Sea pearls, Tahitian pearls, and freshwater pearls, each with its own unique appearance. In addition to these four, there are other interesting types of pearls that may fall under one of these categories.
Discover the finest selection of pearls, including Akoya, Tahitian, and South Sea pearls. Shop necklaces, earrings & bracelets at The Pearl Source.
Located in New York's Diamond District, we have a direct connection to suppliers of the world's finest pearls. Explore our fine-quality jewelry for breathtaking cultured pearl earrings, pearl rings, pearl necklaces, pearl bracelets and more at wholesale prices.
There are various types of pearls. From saltwater pearls to freshwater pearls, there’s a pearl type for everyone’s taste and budget. But what’s the difference between the types, and how can you choose which is right for you?
Perhaps the best-loved gems of all time, pearls—both natural and cultured pearls—occur in a wide variety of colors. Learn about the factors that make pearls so popular and desirable!
Natural pearls occur organically in nature without any human interference and are so rare they are almost nonexistent in today’s market. In contrast, cultured pearls are meticulously cultivated through a careful process that starts with inserting a shell bead into a mollusk.
Explore designs with freshwater, Tahitian, South Sea and Akoya cultured pearls. Discover our imaginative collection of pearl jewelry. Tiffany's master craftspeople meticulously choose and place the world's most beautiful pearls in our timeless designs.