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Side by side

Akoya vs South Sea pearls

Akoya pearls come from Pinctada fucata (akoya oyster), grown in Japan, Vietnam and China. South Sea pearls come from Pinctada maxima (silver-lipped oyster), grown in Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines.

Akoya pearls
vs
South Sea pearls
Akoya pearlsSouth Sea pearls
WaterSaltwaterSaltwater
MolluskPinctada fucata (akoya oyster)Pinctada maxima (silver-lipped oyster)
WhereJapan, Vietnam and ChinaAustralia, Indonesia and the Philippines
Typical size6 to 9 mm; over 9 mm is larger and rarer8 to 18 mm
ShapesRound and near-round prized for classic strandsRound to baroque
How it startsBead-nucleated; usually one pearl at a timeBead-nucleated; one pearl per oyster
Growing time10 to 24 monthsOften 2 to 4 years

The differences

  • Akoya pearls come from Pinctada fucata (akoya oyster), grown in Japan, Vietnam and China. South Sea pearls come from Pinctada maxima (silver-lipped oyster), grown in Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines.
  • Typical sizes (GIA): Akoya 6 to 9 mm, against 8 to 18 mm for South Sea.
  • Colors: Akoya pearls come in white, cream, silvery blue; South Sea in white, silver.
  • Growing time: Akoya 10 to 24 months; South Sea often 2 to 4 years.

More about akoya pearls · More about south sea pearls · Compare looks in Pearl Studio

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between akoya and south sea pearls?

Akoya pearls come from Pinctada fucata (akoya oyster), grown in Japan, Vietnam and China. South Sea pearls come from Pinctada maxima (silver-lipped oyster), grown in Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines. Typical sizes (GIA): Akoya 6 to 9 mm, against 8 to 18 mm for South Sea.

Facts from GIA: Differences between pearl types. Checked October 22, 2026.