Akoya pearls are the original cultured pearl: saltwater gems grown in the Pinctada fucata oyster and perfected in Japan since Kokichi Mikimoto's first successes in the 1890s. Of all pearl types, they are prized for two things above everything else — the sharpest, most mirror-like lustre, and near-perfect roundness. Most Akoya measure between 6 and 9 mm, a size that sits beautifully at the collarbone.

Why choose Akoya

If you picture a "classic pearl necklace," you are picturing Akoya: a cool white body colour, often with a soft rose or silver overtone, strung in a clean, evenly matched line. Because the oyster is small and yields very few gem-quality pearls, fine Akoya carry true rarity without South Sea pricing. That makes them the sweet spot for bridal jewellery, milestone gifts, and a first serious strand.

Choosing yours

A 6.5–7 mm pearl reads dainty and youthful; 7–8 mm is the do-everything classic; 8.5 mm and up makes a statement. An 18-inch princess length suits nearly everyone, and matching studs turn a strand into a set. Every Akoya piece at Prestige Pearl is a genuine cultured saltwater pearl — real pearls at honest prices, shipped from Montréal.