There’s a reason pearls have endured through every era of style—they’re naturally beautiful, endlessly versatile, and always in fashion.
At Poppy Finch, we work with four types of pearls — Akoya, Freshwater, South Sea and Tahitian — all sourced from carefully selected pearl farms.
Each pearl is hand-picked by our in-house team for its shape, size, lustre, and unique character. From the soft glow of freshwater pearls to the luminous sheen of Akoya and the bold elegance of South Sea varieties, we embrace their natural beauty and subtle imperfections.
What Gives a Pearl Its Unmistakable Glow?
It’s not just about beauty — a pearl’s glow is shaped by time, water, and nature. A pearl’s glow—often called lustre—comes from layers of nacre formed gradually over time. As a pearl grows, these microscopic layers build, they reflect light from within, creating the soft, luminous depth. Unlike gemstones that sparkle from surface cuts, a pearl’s beauty comes from within—giving it a glow that feels warm, organic, and alive.
Pearl Types at a Glance
| Pearl Type | Where They’re Grown | Typical Size | Lustre & Appearance | Why We Love Them | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freshwater Pearls | Freshwater lakes and rivers (primarily China) | ~3–12mm | Soft, satiny glow with natural variation in shape | Versatile, approachable, and beautifully individual — no two are exactly alike | Everyday wear, layering, modern pearl styles |
| Akoya Pearls | Saltwater oysters (Japan & China) | ~5–9mm | High lustre and perfectly round | Refined and classic with exceptional shine | Timeless pieces, elegant studs, heirloom-style designs |
| South Sea Pearls (White & Golden) | Saltwater oysters (Australia, Indonesia, Philippines) | ~9–15mm+ | Luminous glow with a soft, creamy or golden tone | Rare, naturally luxurious, and striking in size | Statement pieces, collectors, elevated designs |
| Tahitian Pearls | Saltwater oysters (French Polynesia) | ~8–14mm | Dark body colour with natural overtones (grey, green, peacock) | Bold, modern, and effortlessly distinctive | Contemporary designs, moody elegance, standout pieces |
No two pearls are ever the same — and that’s exactly what we love about them!
Seven Fascinating Facts about Pearls:
- Pearls Love to Be Worn - They respond to the natural warmth and moisture of your body, so wearing them keeps them glowing.
- A Pearl’s Temperature Changes Quickly On The Skin - This is why they feel warm after a few seconds.
- Saltwater Pearls and Freshwater Pearls Come From Different Species - This creates a difference in luster, shape, and durability.
- Akoya Pearls Are Known For Their Mirror-Like Shine - Making them the classic choice for timeless pearl studs.
- Pearls Can Dehydrate Over Time - If stored in very dry conditions (like safes), which can cause cracking.
- Pearls Are The Only Gemstone That Already Comes “Finished.” - No cutting or polishing needed — they emerge with their natural shine, making them uniquely ready-to-wear.
- Pearls Interact With Makeup And Perfume - Over time, these contact points can subtly damage and reduce the quality of the pearl’s surface tone. Click here to learn how to care for your pearls.
