There are many different types of pearls. Currently Shreve, Crump & Low carries Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian, Keishi, Mabe, and Freshwater Pearls. Each pearl has unique qualities that separate it from the others.

 

Akoya

Akoya pearls are the most popular pearls today. They can be seen in pearl strand necklaces and earrings. The quality of akoya pearls is very high, making them a perfect fit for mounting. Akoyas are white with a slight rose overtone, and contain very few blemishes. This allows the akoya pearl to give off a beautiful luster.

 

South Sea

South Sea pearls are some of the rarest pearls you will find. They are larger than the typical pearl and exceptionally smooth and round. South Sea pearls are often set as posts with diamonds to make a radiant piece of jewelry.

 

Tahitian

Tahitian pearls have noticeable differences when compared to the previous two types of pearls. These pearls are black in color and can have blue, green, or purple overtones. Due to the complicated and sensitive process that produces the Tahitian pearl, these pearls are often high in value.

 

Keishi

Keishi pearls are different than the traditional round pearl. These pearls are freeform or shapeless and are ideal for necklaces. The color of the Keishi pearl ranges from silver-white to silver-grey.

 

Mabe

Mabe pearls are also known as half pearls because of the way they are formed. The oyster that produces the Mabe pearl forms the pearls in halves rather than wholes. These pearls are white yet convey a sense of rainbow colored overtone.

 

Freshwater

Freshwater pearls look very similar to Akoya pearls. However, freshwater pearls are smaller and less symmetrical than Akoyas. When strung on a pearl strand necklace, freshwater pearls don’t usually look as well matched as Akoyas. These pearls are significantly lower in value than Akoyas.