Are cultured pearls real pearls?

Yes, cultured pearls are real pearls. The nacre is produced by the mollusc in exactly the same way as a natural pearl; the only difference is that a human initiated the process by introducing an irritant. The gem itself is genuine, not simulated.

What are the main types of cultured pearls?

The major types are Akoya, which are round saltwater pearls from Japan and China known for high lustre; South Sea, large pearls from Australian and Indonesian waters; Tahitian, naturally dark pearls from French Polynesia; and freshwater, which come from mussels in rivers and lakes and offer great variety in shape and colour.

How should you care for pearl jewellery?

Pearls are relatively soft and porous, so they need gentle care. Put them on last when getting dressed, after perfume and hairspray have dried. Wipe them with a soft damp cloth after wearing. Store them flat or in a soft pouch, away from harder jewellery, and take them to a jeweller occasionally to check the silk thread if they are strung.

What is a pearl?

By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026

Definition

A pearl is an organic gem formed inside a mollusc, most commonly an oyster or mussel, when the creature responds to an irritant by coating it in layer after layer of nacre, the same lustrous material that lines the inside of its shell. Natural pearls form entirely by chance in the wild; cultured pearls are produced with human involvement, usually by inserting a nucleus or tissue into a farmed mollusc to start the process. The result, real nacre built up over months or years, is the same either way. Pearl is the birthstone for June.

Frequently asked questions

Are cultured pearls real pearls?: Yes, cultured pearls are real pearls. The nacre is produced by the mollusc in exactly the same way as a natural pearl; the only difference is that a human initiated the process by introducing an irritant. The gem itself is genuine, not simulated.
What are the main types of cultured pearls?: The major types are Akoya, which are round saltwater pearls from Japan and China known for high lustre; South Sea, large pearls from Australian and Indonesian waters; Tahitian, naturally dark pearls from French Polynesia; and freshwater, which come from mussels in rivers and lakes and offer great variety in shape and colour.
How should you care for pearl jewellery?: Pearls are relatively soft and porous, so they need gentle care. Put them on last when getting dressed, after perfume and hairspray have dried. Wipe them with a soft damp cloth after wearing. Store them flat or in a soft pouch, away from harder jewellery, and take them to a jeweller occasionally to check the silk thread if they are strung.

Designing a ring

Talk through pearl with us

Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.

Contact the studio