BAIGAL celebrates the timeless elegance of pearls, a gemstone that has captivated people for centuries with its natural beauty and luster. Among the most treasured varieties are Akoya pearls, known for their exceptional roundness, radiant shine, and classic appeal. Akoya pearls, along with cultured and freshwater pearls, are carefully selected for use in our creations, embodying sophistication and grace in every piece we create.
Pearls are unique among gemstones, as they are organically formed within living mollusks, such as oysters and mussels. The process begins when an irritant, like a grain of sand, becomes lodged inside the mollusk’s shell. In response, the mollusk secretes layers of nacre—a combination of calcium carbonate and protein—to cover the irritant, gradually forming a pearl. This natural process is at the heart of what makes pearls so special, and it gives them a soft, luminous glow that no other gemstone can replicate. While freshwater pearls are cultivated primarily in rivers and lakes, Akoya pearls are grown in saltwater, specifically in Japanese oysters, where the conditions are meticulously controlled by skilled pearl farmers.
Akoya pearls are celebrated for their perfect round shape, fine surface quality, and sharp luster. Often referred to as the "classic pearl," they are the ideal choice for traditional pearl necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. These pearls typically range in size from 6mm to 8mm, making them smaller and more delicate than their larger counterparts, such as South Sea or Tahitian pearls, but no less stunning. Their natural colors range from white and cream to subtle shades of rose or silver.
The rich history of pearls, including Akoya pearls, stretches back thousands of years, symbolizing wealth, purity, and status across cultures. In ancient Japan, pearls were prized possessions of the ruling class, and their significance grew as they became popular among European royalty in the 19th century. Akoya pearls, in particular, owe their prominence to Kokichi Mikimoto, who pioneered the cultured pearl industry in Japan in the early 20th century. His innovations made these exquisite pearls more widely available, allowing people around the world to experience their beauty.
Just as with all pearls, Akoya pearls require special care to ensure their lasting beauty. Pearls are delicate gemstones, and their lustrous surface can be damaged by exposure to harsh chemicals found in perfumes, hairsprays, and cosmetics. After wearing your Akoya pearls, gently wipe them with a soft cloth to remove oils and residues that could dull their shine. When storing your pearls, keep them in a soft pouch or their original BAIGAL jewelry box to protect them from scratches and preserve their flawless surface.
