History of Cultured Pearl

In Japan – Rise of Akoya Pearl

  • Cultured Pearl was founded about 100 years ago
  • Mr. Kokichi Mikimoto being one of the pioneers & leading cultivators of Akoya Pearls, he played an important role in developing modern techniques to cultivate and promote cultured pearls.
  • At first, people thought that those new invented pearl were fake
  • After years of improvement & efforts, Akoya Pearl changes in shape and size over time. In 1916, it has become round & beautiful, popular & acceptable item
  • Along these years, Japanese focuses on Akoya Shell for pearl cultivation, so it is commonly called Akoya Pearl

In other countries – Rise of SOUTH SEA PEARL

  • During 19th century, a few Japanese went to other countries, Australia, Indonesia, Philippines & Tahiti, tried using local shells for pearl cultivation
  • Local farmers also joined Japanese in the pearl cultivation business
  • Cultured Pearl produced in that region is commonly known as South Sea Pearl. After years of improvement, Cultured Pearl production in those countries had successful results.