History
Tahiti (also known as French Polynesia), an island of the South Pacific known as a pleasure-lovers paradise, has become as much of a pearl-lovers paradise. Made famous by cultured pearls produced by steadily increasing numbers since the 1960's. It is estimated that Tahiti outputs more pearls than that of all other South Sea pearl producers combined.

Pearls have been always been prized and collected. Romans loved pearls so much they went bankrupt from buying so many from India. Since then the pearl demand has not let up. Near the 1800's most natural sources of natural pearls were almost gone, but populartity of pearls conitnued. Because the supply of pearls always lagged behind, men had been trying for centuries to grow pearls on command. It wasn't until around 1905 that Kokichi Mimoto perfect a technique to do just that. This technique is known as culturing.

Pearl Buying Guide
Renee Newman, GG / Paperback / Published 1999

Modern Tahiti
Tahitian pearls came on the market in dramatic numbers during the 1970's, with their shiny black color a compelling contrast from the normal white and white-rose colors of Japanese pearls, and in no time at all, these newcomers became known as "Black pearls". Few still call them that, as French Polynesia also produces a wide spectrum of colors that range from deep purples and peacock greens, through to soft pistachio yellow-greens and reddish browns. Designers have flocked to these exotic hues, allowing a new perception of the pearl as a colored stone, not merely a white gem. Tahiti has managed to broaden the appeal of pearls more than any other producer by offering the widest array of color ever seen in cultures pearls.

Tahitians at jewelersweb.com All of the Tahitian pearls on jewelersweb.com are genuine Tahitian pearls. We travel to Tahiti and buy them direct from independent oyster farmers and they all come with our guarantee and certificate of authenticity. See our selection

Pearl Care
All pearls, not just Tahitian pearls, are delicate creations and special care needs to be taken in their use. Never use any kind of chemical or cleanser on a pearl. Use only water and a soft cloth to clean your pearls. Don't wear them in the shower, swim with them, or do dishes with a pearl. These simple precautions will keep your pearl beautiful for generations.

Pearl Value
Determining the value of a Tahitian pearl can be a difficult task. Many considerations need to be taken into account including size, shape, and quality. Tahitian black pearls are usually 8-14mm in size. 15-16mm are uncommon and 17-18 are very rare. Generally the larger the pearl the more valuable it is.

Pearl Shape
Round- is the most prized shape. A round pearl can be no more than 2% asymmetrical.
Semi-round - can be no more than 5% asymmetrical.
Semi-baroque - generally ovoid in shape,
Baroque- strange and irregular, most Keishi are baroques Cercles - A French word (pron. sir-KLAY) for pearls with rings or circular groves.

Pearl Grades
There are five grades of Tahitian pearls:
GEM - No imperfections
A- 1 or 2 small imperfections
B- 2-5 imperfections
C > 5 imperfections
D > 5 imperfections and perhaps other defects.