As white pearls are by far the most common, they are generally considered less expensive than black pearls. However, their value is actually determined by how and where they are produced, their shape and size, and their lustre.
While the white pearls are also priced by jewelers, the gold pearl variety is the most coveted color. The gold South sea pearl's color can range from creamy white to deep gold, and the darker the color, the more expensive it becomes.
Quick Summary: Tahitian pearls, also known as black pearls are incredibly valuable. Even those of lowest quality can be found for $200 per pearl. The highest quality pearls are available for thousands of dollars. Alternatively, you want to start collecting jewelry or gems.
Black pearls have a mysterious aura surrounding them. Some say black pearls are a symbol of hope for wounded hearts, others say they carry healing powers, while others believe black pearls protect the wearer from negative energy. Black pearls are found in the Tahitian and French Polynesian Islands.
South Sea. South Sea pearls are often referred to as the Rolls Royce of pearls. They are the largest and most valuable pearls grown today, with average sizes ranging from 10 to 15 millimeters.
The highest value pearl colors belong to Tahitian pearls, and include blue, brown, purple, peacock and aubergine. Next is Akoya with white and silver, followed by freshwater pearls in shades of white and lavender. South Sea pearls in silver and gold are also very valuable and sought after by collectors.
Black Pearls Are Symbols of Power Prosperity and Eternal Love. Black Pearls, being highly sought after for centuries, only the most powerful were able to come into possession of these rare natural born treasures, symbolism of which is observed up to the present time.
Real pearls will have a strong and iridescent shine, while fake pearls may appear dull or cloudy. Also, rub two natural pearls together; they are real if they make a gritty sound. Lastly, examine the surface of each pearl; real pearls will often have blemishes or small bumps on them that are not found on faux ones.
Moreover, black pearls are rare and are not formed as frequently as white pearls. Typically, they are a native of Tahiti – the largest island in French Polynesia. Hence, they are also commonly known as Tahiti Pearls or Tahitian Pearls. Unlike freshwater pearls, all black pearls are saltwater pearls.
Black Pearl Price Range:
Dyed Black Freshwater Pearls: $50 - $1000. Dyed Black Akoya Pearls: $100 - $2000.
Given their size, luster, value and color, black pearl necklaces are usually worn in more formal situations. The traditional etiquette says they are not meant to be flashy. On the contrary, they are meant to suggest dignity, seduction, art and elegance.
The price of a Tahitian pearl depends on several factors. First, its color: the darker the pearl, the higher its price. Then comes the size: depending on the diameter, the cost increases.
Pearls with particular brand names will also retain (and even increase) their value over the years; vintage Mikimoto Akoya pearls that still have their original clasp, box and papers to establish provenance are very highly sought after today and continue to fetch premium resale values.
It's often assumed that because something's old it must be valuable. That's rarely true and certainly not for pearls. Advances in technology and culturing techniques mean you can buy a much better set of pearls for far less money than in grandma's time.
White and Golden South Sea pearls are the largest and most luxurious of all cultured pearl types on the market today. Often called the “Queen of Pearls”, South Sea pearls feature a gorgeous palette of natural Golden and White colors that shimmer with delicate overtones and are simply unmistakable.
It is said that Black pearl stone brings good luck, fortune and abundance in the life of the wearer. It protects them from sudden death, accidents and mishappenings. People who are suffering from loss or financial crisis in business should wear this pearl.
Black, or Tahitian pearls, are some of the most beautiful gems on this planet. They carry a unique color that cannot be found naturally in any other pearl hence making them one of the most valuable pearls on Earth.
Black-lipped pearl oysters are now uncommon throughout the Hawaiian Islands and it is illegal to take them. These oysters are frequently covered by sand, algae and hydroids, thus making them blend in well with their surrounding habitat.
Symbolism: Just like the dragon, black pearls are considered to be the symbol of wisdom and strength. What's more, in the Chinese culture these gemstones are often gifted to bestow the receiver with luck and good fortune.
The Tahitian pearl (or black pearl) is an organic gem formed from the black lip oyster (Pinctada margaritifera). These pearls derive their name from the fact that they are primarily cultivated around the islands of French Polynesia, around Tahiti.
This means that people of Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Capricorn and Aquarius ascendant should not wear pearls. If such people wear pearls then their mind gets distracted and upheaval starts in life. Those people whose moon is placed in the 12th or 10th house in their horoscope are also not advised to wear pearls.
The qualities that determine the overall value of a natural or cultured pearl or a piece of pearl jewelry are size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, nacre quality, and—for jewelry with two or more pearls—matching.
The luster of good quality pearls is sharp and bright. You should be able to see your reflection clearly on the surface of a pearl. Any pearl that appears too white, dull or chalky, is of low quality.
Tahitian Gem Grade Pearls
Gem Grade Tahitian Black Pearls are special pearls which display the highest value of every factor. These pearls represent less than 3% of the pearl harvest and are therefore extremely rare.