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Akoya Pearl Pendants

Classic and Luxurious Akoya Pearl Pendants

An elegant and time-honored classic, Japanese Akoya Pearl Pendants are an icon of jewelry fashion. Their bright, crisp luster, shimmering overtones and subtle sense of luxury add polish and sophistication to any outfit. Whether you decide on the traditional Solitaire pendant, or one sparkling with diamond or gemstone accents, our Japanese Akoya pearl pendants are guaranteed to become a treasured jewelry favorite.







Prettiest Pendants in the World – Japanese Akoya Pearl Pendants

An Akoya Pearl Pendant is a true treasure from the Ocean – a timeless gemstone that shimmers and shines with incomparable Luster and Orient. Whether you’re looking for a classic Akoya Pearl Solitaire Pendant, or a design sparkling with diamond accents, Pure Pearls offers a stunning collection of pendant designs, showcasing one of the most beautiful gems in the world, sourced directly from the pearl farms of Japan. Each and every one of our Akoya pearl pendants is handmade, to order, here at our Los Angeles, CA workshop; using our In House goldsmith, some designs are completely exclusive to PurePearls.com, and can be found nowhere else online.

Finest Akoya Pearl Quality From the Top 5% of Each Harvest

PurePearls.com uses only the finest, AAA Quality Japanese Akoya pearls for our pendant collection, so you can be completely confident that you’re only wearing the finest pearls in the world. To learn more about the A-AAA Grading Scale and what makes our AAA Quality Akoya the very best, read our Expert’s Guide to Akoya Pearl Grading, which features a complete breakdown of every grade, and real-life photos of our pearls so you know exactly what to expect when you purchase from PurePearls.com. Learn everything there is to know about these legendary gems by visiting our Ultimate Akoya Pearl Buyer’s Guide, which details the gem’s history and origins, to an exploration of the Japanese pearl farms, to common pearl sizes, colors and more.

Akoya Pearl Pendants — Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Akoya pearl pendants different from other pearl pendants?

Akoya pearl pendants are distinguished by their exceptional mirror-like luster and perfectly round shapes that have made them the classic choice for fine pearl jewelry for over a century. Cultivated in Japan and China, Akoya pearls possess an intense, reflective quality that surpasses other pearl types, creating a luminous glow that catches and reflects light beautifully.

  • Superior luster with a sharp, mirror-like reflection that creates exceptional brilliance and depth
  • Perfectly round shapes and smooth surfaces that represent the traditional pearl ideal
  • Classic white to cream colors with rose or silver overtones that complement any skin tone
  • Smaller, more refined sizes (typically 6-9mm) that offer elegant sophistication perfect for pendant designs
What sizes are available for Akoya pearl pendants?

Akoya pearl pendants typically range from 6mm to 9.5mm, with this size range representing the natural growth potential of Akoya pearls. The most popular sizes fall between 7mm and 8.5mm, offering a perfect balance of noticeable presence and classic elegance that works beautifully as a focal point for pendant designs.

  • 6-7mm: Delicate and refined, perfect for those who prefer subtle elegance or layering with other necklaces
  • 7-8mm: The most versatile and popular size, offering classic beauty suitable for any occasion
  • 8-8.5mm: Substantial presence with sophisticated impact, ideal for making an elegant statement
  • 9-9.5mm: Premium larger sizes that are rare and highly prized, perfect for those seeking maximum impact
What does AAA quality mean for Akoya pearl pendants?

AAA quality represents the highest grade of Akoya pearls, indicating exceptional luster, near-flawless surface quality, and superior overall characteristics. At Pure Pearls, we exclusively offer AAA quality Akoya pearl pendants, ensuring you receive only the finest pearls from the top 5-10% of each harvest with outstanding beauty and lasting value.

  • Excellent to very high luster creating intense mirror-like reflections and depth
  • Near-perfect surface quality with 95% or more of the surface free from visible blemishes
  • Perfectly round or near-round shapes meeting the strictest standards for symmetry
  • Thick nacre layers ensuring durability, longevity, and enduring beauty for generations
What metal settings work best with Akoya pearl pendants?

Akoya pearls' classic white to cream coloring pairs beautifully with all precious metals, though certain metals enhance specific overtones and create different aesthetic effects. The choice of metal setting depends on your personal style, skin tone, and whether you want to emphasize the pearl's cool or warm undertones.

  • 14K White Gold: Enhances cool silver overtones and creates a contemporary, elegant look perfect for modern styling
  • 14K Yellow Gold: Traditional choice that brings out warm rose overtones and offers timeless, classic appeal
  • 18K Gold: Higher gold content provides richer color and luxurious presence for heirloom-quality pieces
  • Sterling Silver: Affordable option that complements the pearl's natural luster while offering bright, contemporary style
Are Akoya pearl pendants suitable for everyday wear?

Yes, Akoya pearl pendants are excellent choices for everyday wear and their classic elegance enhances everything from casual attire to professional business wear. In fact, wearing your Akoya pearl pendant regularly is beneficial as exposure to your skin's natural oils helps maintain the pearl's luster and prevents it from drying out over time.

  • Durable AAA quality Akoya pearls with thick nacre are built to withstand daily wear
  • Classic styling transitions seamlessly from office to evening, making them highly practical
  • Regular wearing helps keep pearls naturally moisturized and lustrous
  • Simple pendant designs on 16-18 inch chains work perfectly with everyday wardrobes and professional attire
How should I care for my Akoya pearl pendant to maintain its luster?

Proper care preserves your Akoya pearl pendant's exceptional luster and ensures it remains beautiful for generations. Akoya pearls' renowned brilliance requires gentle treatment and protection from chemicals and harsh conditions that can dull or damage the delicate nacre surface.

  • Always put your pendant on last, after applying cosmetics, perfume, hairspray, and lotions to avoid chemical exposure
  • Wipe the pearl gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth after wearing to remove oils and residue
  • Store your pendant in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box, keeping it separate from other jewelry to prevent scratching
  • Never use ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, or abrasive materials on your Akoya pearl—gentle cleaning with mild soap and water is sufficient
What chain length is recommended for Akoya pearl pendants?

The ideal chain length for your Akoya pearl pendant depends on your body proportions, neckline preferences, and how you plan to wear it. Standard lengths range from 16 to 20 inches, with 18 inches being the most universally flattering and versatile choice for most pendant styles and occasions.

  • 16 inches: Sits at the base of the neck like a choker, ideal for high necklines and petite frames
  • 18 inches: The most popular length, resting just below the collarbone and working with virtually any neckline
  • 20 inches: Falls to the top of the bust, perfect for V-necks and creating elegant vertical lines
  • Custom lengths available upon request to achieve your exact desired positioning and look
Can I match my Akoya pearl pendant with other Akoya pearl jewelry?

Absolutely! Creating a matched Akoya pearl set with coordinating pendant, earrings, and bracelet is a wonderful way to build a cohesive jewelry wardrobe. While perfectly matched sets offer classic elegance, modern styling also embraces mixing different sizes within the same pearl type for added visual interest and contemporary appeal.

  • Matched sets in identical sizes create traditional, formal elegance perfect for weddings and special occasions
  • Mix sizes for modern appeal—pair an 8mm pendant with 7mm earrings for subtle visual interest
  • Coordinate metal settings across all pieces to create a polished, cohesive look
  • Our AAA quality Akoya pearls ensure consistent luster and color across multiple pieces for beautiful coordination
What occasions are Akoya pearl pendants appropriate for?

Akoya pearl pendants are remarkably versatile and suitable for virtually any occasion, from casual daily wear to the most formal black-tie events. Their timeless elegance and refined beauty have made them a staple of both classic and contemporary wardrobes, offering sophisticated style that never goes out of fashion.

  • Professional settings: Adds refined elegance to business attire, projecting sophistication and attention to quality
  • Weddings and formal events: Traditional choice for brides and guests seeking classic, timeless beauty
  • Everyday casual wear: Elevates simple outfits with effortless grace and understated luxury
  • Gift-giving: Perfect for graduations, anniversaries, milestone birthdays, and any celebration of achievement or love
Do Akoya pearl pendants come with certification?

Yes, all Pure Pearls Akoya pearl pendants come with a certificate of authenticity that verifies the pearls are genuine, cultured Akoya pearls and confirms their AAA quality grade. This documentation provides peace of mind about your purchase and serves as important verification of quality for insurance purposes or future resale.

  • Certificate confirms the pearls are genuine, cultured Akoya pearls from Japan or China
  • Documentation verifies AAA quality grade including luster, surface quality, and shape assessments
  • Includes details about pearl size, metal type, and other specifications of your pendant
  • Certificate serves as valuable documentation for insurance coverage and protects your investment
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