Hawaiian Pearl Guide: Types, Choosing, and Care
The pearls used in Hawaiian jewelry are most often Tahitian, freshwater, and mother of pearl, chosen for luster, color, and size and set into Island designs handcrafted in Honolulu. Pearls have a long association with Hawaii, from the old name for Pearl Harbor to today’s Tahitian pearl pendants. This guide covers the main pearl types you will encounter, how to judge quality, and how to care for pearls so they keep their glow.
What kinds of pearls are used in Hawaiian jewelry?
Several pearl types appear in Island jewelry, each with a distinct character:
| Pearl type | Character | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tahitian pearl | Naturally dark, from silver-grey to peacock green and deep black | Cultured in French Polynesia; prized for size and color |
| Freshwater pearl | Soft white, cream, and pastel tones in many shapes | Versatile and a popular everyday choice |
| Mother of pearl | Iridescent shell nacre, not a pearl itself | Carved and inlaid into pendants and rings |
| Golden South Sea pearl | Large, warm golden tones | Rare and among the most valuable |
What is a Tahitian pearl?
A Tahitian pearl is a cultured pearl grown in the black-lipped oyster, and it is the only pearl that is naturally dark rather than dyed. Despite the Island connection in Hawaiian jewelry, Tahitian pearls are cultured in the waters of French Polynesia, not Hawaii, and they are then set into Hawaiian designs. Their colors range from silvery grey through green, aubergine, and peacock to near black, and no two are exactly alike, which is part of their appeal. Browse the Tahitian pearl collection to see the color range.
Are there pearls from Hawaii?
Pearls are woven into Hawaiian history even though Hawaii has no modern commercial pearl industry. Pearl Harbor was known to Hawaiians as Wai Momi, meaning “waters of pearl,” a name that reflects the pearl oysters once found in its waters. Those historic oyster beds declined long ago, so the pearls set in Hawaiian jewelry today are sourced from established pearl regions like French Polynesia and then crafted into Island designs. The connection between Hawaii and pearls is real and old, but the pearls themselves are cultured elsewhere.
How do I choose a good pearl?
Four qualities matter most. Luster is the first and most important: a good pearl has a bright, deep shine and shows a clear reflection rather than a chalky surface. Surface should be relatively clean and smooth, with few blemishes. Shape ranges from perfectly round, which is the rarest, to teardrop and baroque shapes that many people prefer for their character. Size and color come down to preference and setting, with larger pearls and rarer colors commanding more. Judge pearls in good light and trust luster above all.
How do I care for pearls?
Pearls are soft and organic, so they need gentler care than gold or gemstones. Put pearls on last, after applying lotion, perfume, and hairspray, since these can dull the surface, and take them off before swimming or showering. Wipe them with a soft, slightly damp cloth after wearing to remove skin oils. Store pearls flat and separately from harder jewelry so they are not scratched, and avoid airtight bags, since pearls benefit from a little humidity. Pearl strands should be restrung periodically if worn often.
Wear a Hawaiian pearl piece
From dark Tahitian pearls to soft freshwater strands, a pearl piece is a timeless way to wear the Islands. Browse the Island pearls collection or explore the full Hawaiian jewelry collection, all handcrafted in Honolulu.
Frequently asked questions about Hawaiian pearls
What pearls are used in Hawaiian jewelry?
Hawaiian jewelry most often features Tahitian pearls, freshwater pearls, and mother of pearl, with golden South Sea pearls used in higher-end pieces. Each is chosen for its luster, color, and size and set into Island designs.
Are Tahitian pearls from Hawaii?
No. Tahitian pearls are cultured in French Polynesia, not Hawaii. They are then set into Hawaiian jewelry designs. Their naturally dark colors, from grey to peacock green to black, make them distinctive.
Does Hawaii produce its own pearls?
Not commercially today. Pearl Harbor was historically called Wai Momi, or “waters of pearl,” for the oysters once found there, but those beds declined long ago. Pearls used in Hawaiian jewelry now come from established pearl regions and are crafted into Island designs.
How do I take care of pearl jewelry?
Put pearls on last, after lotion and perfume, and take them off before swimming. Wipe them with a soft, slightly damp cloth after wearing, store them flat and away from harder jewelry, and have worn strands restrung periodically.