South Sea Pearl vs. Tahitian Pearl: What’s the Difference?

Both South Sea pearls and Tahitian pearls are luxurious saltwater pearls, but they differ in color, size, origin, and overall appearance. Below is a quick comparison to help you understand their unique characteristics.

 

Key Differences Between South Sea and Tahitian Pearls

Feature	South Sea Pearls	Tahitian Pearls
Color	White, golden	Black, gray, green, peacock, blue
Size	9mm - 20mm	8mm - 16mm
Luster	Soft, satin-like glow	High luster with metallic overtones
Shape	Round, oval, baroque	Round, oval, baroque, drop
Origin	Australia, Indonesia, Philippines	French Polynesia
Rarity	Less common due to larger size	More common but still valuable

 

1. Color & Luster

· South Sea pearls are known for their creamy white or golden hues, often with a soft, satin-like glow.

· Tahitian pearls, on the other hand, are famous for their dark colors, ranging from charcoal gray to deep black, peacock green, and even blue tones. They tend to have a more metallic sheen.

2. Size & Shape

· South Sea pearls are generally larger, averaging 9mm to 20mm, making them the biggest cultured pearls in the world.

· Tahitian pearls range from 8mm to 16mm, slightly smaller but still considered large.

Both types can be found in various shapes, including round, oval, drop, and baroque, but perfectly round pearls are the rarest and most valuable.

3. Origin & Rarity

· South Sea pearls are primarily found in the warm waters of Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. They are produced by the Pinctada maxima oyster, which is one of the largest pearl-producing oysters.

· Tahitian pearls come from the French Polynesia region, specifically cultivated by the Pinctada margaritifera oyster, which is known for producing naturally dark-colored pearls.

Since South Sea pearls take longer to develop and require larger oysters, they are generally rarer and more expensive.

 

Which One Should You Choose?

· Choose South Sea pearls if you love classic, soft-toned elegance and larger pearl sizes. They are perfect for formal jewelry pieces and statement necklaces.

· Choose Tahitian pearls if you prefer bold, exotic, and unique colors with a modern, sophisticated touch. Their darker tones create a mysterious and luxurious look.

Both pearls are stunning choices, each with its own unique beauty and appeal!