Akoya pearls are produced from the oyster known as Pinctada fucata martensii, which is the smallest pearl producer known in the oyster family. These pearls are known for their pristine round shapes, which make them an ideal and popular choice for necklaces and matching earrings. However, aside from being consistently round, they can also have a semi-round, baroque and semi-baroqe shape.

Although Akoya pearls are also produced in China, they previously were considered the Japanese pearl, and were cultured primarily in Ehime, Mie, Oita, Nagasaki and Kumamoto prefectures.

The water temperature of the ocean where they grow is considerably low, and fluctuates with the coming of each new season. Akoya pearls develop a unique luster and color, which is caused by the compacting of the aragonite crystals which form in the water during seasonal change. The ideal Akoya pearl is one that has the perfect amount of crystals as well as nacre, and is considered to be the most lustrous and beautiful of all pearls.

To produce Akoya pearls, a nucleus is inserted with a mini speck of mantle tissue form previous oyster shells, creating a round bead that the nacre will begin to grow around. Depending on the size of the oyster, usually up to three beads can be placed in it. Once the beads are ready, the oyster is placed in the ocean and left for 6-18 months for cultivation. The longer the Akoya oysters are left in the ocean, the better chance the nacre has of growing and influencing the pearl, resulting in nicer looking and more valued pearls. Unfortunately, the longer period of time also means a higher risk is involved, as the oyster has more potential of dying or becoming damaged from storms and other ailments. The highest quality Akoya pearls are left in the ocean for close to two years.

The average size of Akoya pearls range from as tiny as 2 mm to 9.5 mm. All sizes of these pearls can be used for jewelry purposes, but it is commonly the 5 -8 mm sized pearls that are used when making necklaces. Due to the different size range of the Akoya pearl, it is one of the most popular pearl choices among woman.

Akoya pearls come in a variety of colors, such as blue, green, pink, rose, cream, white, silver and gold. The characteristic hues are attributed to the nacre structure of the pearl, and for this reason, cultivators focus on producing pearls that are made with the right quantities of each ingredient. When it comes down to quality, the thicker the nacre of the Akoya pearl is, the more valuable and beautiful the pearl will be.

Even though the Akoya pearl has been challenged by the look and luster of freshwater pearls, it still maintains its popularity today. This is because not only can it suit the taste and style of any occasion, as they can be worn elegant, chic or casual, but they are a taste of the true beauty that thrives and blossoms beneath the sea.