FAQ

 Lagoon Pearls prides itself on sourcing pearls from small pearl farms located in French Polynesia. As a company, we are committed to sustainable and environmentally conscious practices, which is why we carefully select the farmers we work with. By doing so, we ensure that our pearls are ethically sourced and contribute to the preservation of the marine environment. We believe in promoting responsible pearl cultivation and are dedicated to supporting the long-term viability of the pearl industry.

The color of a pearl is determined by the type of mollusk that produces it and the conditions in which it forms. Tahitian pearls are formed by the black-lipped oyster (Pinctada Margaritifera) in the waters surrounding Tahiti and other French Polynesian islands. These oysters have a unique ability to produce pearls in a variety of dark colors, including black.

Natural pearls are formed by chance in the wild when an irritant enters a mollusk, while cultured pearls are created through a human-initiated process of inserting an irritant into a mollusk. Natural pearls are rare and valuable, while cultured pearls are more readily available and affordable.

Yes, cultured Tahitian pearls are real pearls. Cultured pearls, including Tahitian pearls, are formed through the intentional process of pearl culturing, where humans insert an irritant into a mollusk and facilitate the pearl formation. The mollusk responds by secreting layers of nacre, which gradually develop into a pearl. Cultured Tahitian pearls have the same organic composition and exhibit similar luster and beauty as natural pearls. The term "cultured" simply indicates that the pearl formation process was initiated and guided by humans, distinguishing them from natural pearls that form spontaneously in the wild.

The growth period for Tahitian pearls can vary, but on average, it takes around 18 months  to 2 years for a Tahitian pearl to develop inside a black-lipped oyster. During this time, the oyster forms layers of nacre around an irritant, such as a bead or a piece of mantle tissue, gradually creating the pearl. The growth rate of pearls can be influenced by various factors, including the oyster's health, environmental conditions, and the size and quality of the pearl being formed. Some pearls may take longer than three years to reach their desired size and quality, while others may develop more quickly.

The occurrence of pearls in oysters can vary widely, and the exact rate at which pearls are found in oysters can be challenging to determine precisely. However, it is commonly cited that the average rate of natural pearl formation in oysters is estimated to be around 1 pearl per 10,000 oysters. This estimate highlights the rarity of natural pearls and underscores why they are considered valuable and highly sought after.

Tahitian pearls are graded based on several factors that assess their quality and desirability. The grading criteria typically include the following aspects:

1. Size: The size of a Tahitian pearl is measured in millimeters. Generally, larger pearls are more valuable, although other factors such as luster and surface quality also play a role in determining value.
2. Shape: Tahitian pearls can come in various shapes, including round, semi-round, drop, baroque, and circled. Round pearls are often considered the most desirable, while baroque pearls with unique shapes can also have their own appeal.
3. Color: Tahitian pearls are known for their range of natural colors, including black, gray, silver, green, and blue. The color should be even, rich, and vibrant. Certain colors, like peacock green or deep black, are highly prized.
4. Luster: Luster refers to the reflective quality or glow that emanates from the surface of a pearl. High luster is a desirable characteristic, indicating a strong iridescence and shine.
5. Surface Quality: The surface of a Tahitian pearl is examined for blemishes, spots, or imperfections. Pearls with cleaner and smoother surfaces are considered more valuable.
6. Matching: In jewelry sets or strands of pearls, the degree of matching among the pearls is assessed. Pearls that are well-matched in terms of size, shape, color, luster, and surface quality are considered more valuable.

Remember that pearls are meant to be worn and can benefit from the natural oils of your skin. Regularly wearing them can help maintain their luster. By following these care guidelines, you can enjoy your black pearls for many years to come.

Here are some guides on how to care for your pearls:

• Avoid contact with chemicals and perfumes.
• Keep pearls away from direct sunlight.
• Protect them from scratches by storing them separately.
• Avoid extreme temperatures.
• Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap if needed.

Yes, when selecting pearls from our collection, you can be confident that the ones you see in the photographs are the same pearls you will receive. We strive to accurately showcase their beauty and distinctive features, ensuring a true representation of their unique characteristics.