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Akoya vs Tahitian pearls

Akoya pearls come from Pinctada fucata (akoya oyster), grown in Japan, Vietnam and China. Tahitian pearls come from Pinctada margaritifera (black-lipped oyster), grown in French Polynesia, around Tahiti and nearby islands.

Akoya pearls
vs
Tahitian pearls
Akoya pearlsTahitian pearls
WaterSaltwaterSaltwater
MolluskPinctada fucata (akoya oyster)Pinctada margaritifera (black-lipped oyster)
WhereJapan, Vietnam and ChinaFrench Polynesia, around Tahiti and nearby islands
Typical size6 to 9 mm; over 9 mm is larger and rarer8 to 14 mm; over 14 mm is less common
ShapesRound and near-round prized for classic strandsVaried; large, round, smooth pearls are especially rare
How it startsBead-nucleated; usually one pearl at a timeBead-nucleated; one pearl per oyster
Growing time10 to 24 monthsAbout 18 to 24 months

The differences

  • Akoya pearls come from Pinctada fucata (akoya oyster), grown in Japan, Vietnam and China. Tahitian pearls come from Pinctada margaritifera (black-lipped oyster), grown in French Polynesia, around Tahiti and nearby islands.
  • Typical sizes (GIA): Akoya 6 to 9 mm, against 8 to 14 mm for Tahitian.
  • Colors: Akoya pearls come in white, cream, silvery blue; Tahitian in charcoal, gray, silver, green, brown.
  • Growing time: Akoya 10 to 24 months; Tahitian about 18 to 24 months.

More about akoya pearls · More about tahitian pearls · Compare looks in Pearl Studio

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between akoya and tahitian pearls?

Akoya pearls come from Pinctada fucata (akoya oyster), grown in Japan, Vietnam and China. Tahitian pearls come from Pinctada margaritifera (black-lipped oyster), grown in French Polynesia, around Tahiti and nearby islands. Typical sizes (GIA): Akoya 6 to 9 mm, against 8 to 14 mm for Tahitian.

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