Found only in French Polynesia, Tahitian pearls are loved for their unique luster, making Tahitian pearl necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings incredibly popular. These eye-catching pearls feature darker shades like black with glowing tones of green, purple, blue, and silvery gray. Our iridescent black pearl jewelry shimmers with subtly glowing colors, handcrafted details, added gemstones, and precious metals that complement the unique beauty of black pearls. Discover the distinct beauty of Tahitian pearl jewelry with our curated collection.
Touch is the quickest and easiest way to tell if a Tahitian pearl is authentic. When you feel a genuine Tahitian pearl, it should be cool to the touch and warm up when worn. Costume jewelry pearls typically feel warm and can even have a sticky texture.
Both cultured and natural Tahitian pearls form in different shapes and sizes, while costume jewelry pearls look very uniform. Genuine Tahitian pearls also reflect light, unlike their imitation counterparts. Purchasing your Tahitian pearls from a trusted jeweler, like us, will ensure your black pearl jewelry is as authentic as it is beautiful.
How do I take care of Tahitian pearls?
The first rule of gemstone jewelry care is to keep your jewelry clean. Wipe your Tahitian pearls clean with a soft cloth after you wear them. Remember that body care products can damage your Tahitian pearl jewelry, so be sure to put these pieces on last, and take them off first to protect them.
You should not submerge Tahitian pearl necklaces, especially strand styles, in water. Doing so can weaken the structure of the necklace. It's also best to lay black pearl necklaces flat when storing them to help prevent stretching.
Store your pearls inside a soft cloth bag to protect against scratches. We offer complimentary cleaning and repair services for all of our jewelry. Through proper gemstone care, you can wear your Tahitian pearls every day without concern.
How do Tahitian pearls get their color?
Tahitian pearls get their lustrous black color from the Pinctada margaritifera, otherwise known as the Tahitian black-lipped oyster. The oyster that created the pearl determines its colorway. French Polynesia is the only place you can find natural Tahitian pearls, and they are one of only two types of pearls that are naturally colored black.
What black pearl jewelry is available?
We offer a wide selection of real Tahitian pearl jewelry for every style and budget. Shop full strands of black pearl necklaces, colorful black pearl earrings, gold and pearl bracelets, solitaire black pearl rings, and even styles with added gemstones like diamonds. We handcraft our black pearl jewelry in precious metals such as sterling silver and various shades of gold.
How do you care for jewelry with Tahitian pearls?
With a little extra care, jewelry with black pearls can bring style for years to come. Avoid exposing your jewelry to cosmetics, household cleaners and other chemicals to prevent damage. When you’re not wearing black pearl earrings or other Tahitian pearl jewelry, it’s best to store these pieces in a soft felt-lined box or individual pouch. Black pearl necklaces, especially strands, should be stored flat. Visit our guide to pearls to learn more about the best ways to care for Tahitian pearl jewelry.
Are black pearl necklaces in style?
Yes, black Tahitian pearl necklaces are incredibly stylish. They add dramatic looks to any ensemble. Black pearl strand necklaces make striking statements, while metal-forward designs with black pearl features make for contemporary looks. Shop our full selection to find your perfect piece.
How are black pearls made?
All black Tahitian pearls, whether natural or cultured, are created by specific oysters that produce this iconic pearl type. Most of the jewelry-quality black pearls on today’s market are cultured styles. Cultured black pearls are just as beautiful and enchanting as natural ones.
Cultured Tahitian pearls are created when a pearl nucleus is manually inserted into a pearl-producing oyster. Then, the oyster produces the pearl over the course of several years. Visit our Tahitian pearl educational guide for more details on how these stunning pearls are formed.
Is the black pearl a real pearl?
Yes, Tahitian black pearls are real pearls.
What designs are available?
We offer handcrafted black pearl jewelry for every style. Choose from stud earrings with black pearls, dramatic necklaces, colorful rings, bracelets, and more. Our designs include strands, dangle earrings, pendant necklaces, and multi-layer pieces.
All our black pearl jewelry is crafted in precious metals like sterling silver, white gold, rose gold, and yellow gold. We also offer pieces that combine signature black pearls with natural or lab diamonds for contrasting style.
Does Tahitian pearl jewelry make a good gift?
Yes, Tahitian pearl jewelry pieces are excellent gifts. For an alternative June birthstone gift, choose black pearls instead of lighter varieties.
Who can wear jewelry with Tahitian pearls?
Anyone with an appreciation for these gems can wear black pearl jewelry.
Is jewelry with black pearls popular?
Though not as popular as lighter pearl varieties, black pearls are unique and in-demand styles.
What are black pearl buying tips?
When you’re shopping for black pearl jewelry, it’s important to make your purchase from trustworthy jewelry stores to ensure you’re buying authentic Tahitian pearls. If you’re looking to stretch your budget, consider pieces with a few pearls rather than complete Tahitian pearl necklace strands.