South Sea cultured pearls are considered the most exquisite of all cultured pearls, captivating with their impressive size and exceptionally thick nacre — a reason they are often referred to as the “queens of pearls.” They range in size from 7 to 20 mm, with larger specimens being rare treasures. These pearls are cultivated in the pristine waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, off the coasts of Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Their shimmering color spectrum ranges from radiant white, silver, and delicate rosé to warm cream and golden hues. The South Sea oyster Pinctada maxima, which can weigh up to 5 kg, forms a nacre layer of about 1 to 1.5 mm each year, while the cultivation process itself takes between 1.5 and 3 years.

Tahitian cultured pearls, often referred to as the black jewels of the South Seas, are the only naturally black cultured pearls and are especially sought after. They range in size from 8 to 20 mm, with specimens above that being extremely rare. Their primary cultivation areas are the idyllic waters of French Polynesia and the Cook Islands. Their color spectrum includes deep brown-black, aubergine, shimmering peacock, elegant green-gray, and anthracite tones. Unlike other black cultured pearls, which are artificially dyed, their dark hues occur naturally. The Tahitian oyster Pinctada margaritifera can weigh up to 5 kg and forms a nacre layer of about 1 to 1.5 mm per year. The cultivation of these extraordinary pearls takes between 1.5 and 2 years.

Akoya cultured pearls are considered the epitome of classic elegance, known for their flawless luster and perfectly round shape. They grow to sizes ranging from 2 to 9 mm, with specimens over 9 mm being rare, and the maximum size reaching 11 mm. The main cultivation areas are in the coastal regions of central and southern Japan, as well as China. Their color range includes refined shades of soft pink, white-rosé, and cream-rosé, as well as greenish shimmering white-rosé, champagne, and natural silver-gray. Additionally, artificially dyed versions are available in black and deep gray. The Akoya oyster Pinctada fucata martensii only grows to about 7 to 10 mm and produces a relatively fine nacre layer of approximately 0.6 to 1.0 mm. The cultivation period typically ranges from six months to two years, depending on environmental conditions.

Freshwater cultured pearls captivate with their variety of shapes and colors and are cultivated in sizes ranging from 2 to 13 mm. Pearls larger than 13 mm are rare, and those over 15 mm are true rarities. The main cultivation regions are in China, particularly in the Yangtze River Delta, as well as in Japan, where they are grown in Lake Kasumigaura and Lake Biwa. Their color palette spans from delicate white-rosé, rose-orange, and warm golden brown to soft violet and lilac tones, all the way to elegant steel gray. Japanese Kasumigaura pearls are especially known for their unique shades of pink, violet, and soft rosé. The freshwater mussel Hyriopsis cumingii can grow up to 30 cm in length and has a characteristically oval shape. Freshwater pearls are mostly grown without a nucleus and require a growth period of two to four years, with larger pearls taking up to seven or eight years. In contrast, pearls from Lake Kasumigaura and Lake Biwa are grown with a nucleus, enabling them to reach sizes of up to 16 mm. Their cultivation typically takes about three to four years.

Shape: Round cultured pearls are among the most valuable and rare types. However, the world of cultured pearls offers a stunning variety of shapes, each unique in its own right. In addition to the classic round shape, there are drops, buttons, baroque, flats (flat, elongated), centers (rounded or button-like), and rice grains – each lending a distinctive individuality that makes every pearl a special piece of jewelry.

Luster: Luster is a critical quality feature of pearls. It refers to the captivating shine of the pearl's surface, created by the refraction and reflection of light on the layers of aragonite crystals. The thicker the nacre layer, the more intense and brilliant the luster – increasing both the value and desirability of the pearl.

Size: The diameter of a cultured pearl is a key factor in determining its value – as a general rule, the larger the pearl, the more valuable it is.

Surface: Another important quality characteristic is the condition of the pearl's surface. Indentations, bumps, or irregularities – also known as “spots” – can affect the pearl’s value. However, high-quality cultured pearls with such spots are increasingly appreciated by enthusiasts, as their thick nacre, intense luster, and unique coloration contribute to their one-of-a-kind beauty.