Guide
Freshwater vs akoya pearls
Freshwater pearls grow in freshwater mussels, come in many shapes and soft colors, are usually solid nacre, and cost less. Akoya pearls grow in saltwater oysters, are usually round and white with a sharp, mirror-like luster, have a thinner nacre layer over a bead, and cost more.
Freshwater pearl necklaces
Freshwater vs akoya at a glance
| Freshwater | Akoya | |
|---|---|---|
| Grows in | Freshwater mussels, mostly in China | Saltwater akoya oysters, mainly Japan and China |
| Shape | Round to baroque; many shapes | Usually round |
| Color | White, cream, peach, blush, lavender | Mostly white or cream, often with rose or silver overtones |
| Luster | Soft, satiny glow | Sharp, mirror-like shine |
| Nacre | Usually solid nacre | Nacre layer over a shell bead |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
Freshwater pearls with gemstones
Which should you choose?
Choose akoya for a classic matched strand of round white pearls with a bright shine. Choose freshwater for everyday wear, natural shapes, soft colors and more pearl for the money.
We use freshwater pearls. These are our freshwater pearl necklaces in the shop today, with real prices:
| Necklace | Pearls and stones | Price | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Collette | Blush coin pearl | $138 | 15 in |
| The St. Tropez | Aquamarine & freshwater pearl | $158 | 17 in |
| The Soleil | Peach moonstone & freshwater pearl | $158 | Not listed |
| The Winslet | Sodalite, blush freshwater pearls & rhodochrosite | $185 | Not listed |
| The Elowen | Labradorite, citrine & champagne freshwater pearl | $185 | Not listed |
Questions
What is the difference between freshwater and akoya pearls?
Freshwater pearls grow in freshwater mussels, come in many shapes and soft colors, are usually solid nacre, and cost less. Akoya pearls grow in saltwater oysters, are usually round and white with a sharp, mirror-like luster, have a thinner nacre layer over a bead, and cost more.
Are freshwater pearls real pearls?
Yes. Freshwater pearls are real cultured pearls, grown in mussels.
Are freshwater pearls durable?
Solid nacre makes them hold up well to everyday wear. Keep them away from perfume and store them apart from harder stones.
What pearls does Julian James use?
Freshwater pearls, hand-strung with gemstones in one-of-a-kind necklaces.