5 Things You Didn’t Know About Akoya Pearls

Akoya pearls are fondly referred to as the darlings of the jewelry world. Therefore, it is helpful to know the unique characteristics that set them apart from others when choosing your next piece of jewelry.

The history of pearls, worn by women since time immemorial, dates back to 2300 BC, when they were the preferred gift of Chinese royalty. In ancient Rome, pearls were considered a status symbol, and Julius Caesar ordered that they could only be worn by aristocrats. In Greek mythology, they were considered the tears of joy of Aphrodite herself.

Coming to modern fame when worn as “strands and ropes” around the neck of Coco Chanel and adorning women from Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana and Oprah Winfrey to Gal Gadot, Kendall Jenner and Kamala Harris, pearls are truly the “Queen of Gems.”

The Akoya pearl is probably the most sought-after pearl due to its radiant shimmer, nearly round shape, and incredible luster. These saltwater pearls are known for their very pure and smooth complexion, which makes them the perfect addition to any outfit.

What makes Akoya pearls so special? Here are five pieces of wisdom you didn’t know about Akoya pearls.

They have beautiful overtones

Most Akoya pearls are white with three overtones – the secondary color that sparkles and shimmers over the primary color of the pearl.

While pinkish tones are the most traditional and go well with light complexions, silver is the most popular color because it looks lighter and therefore larger. Pearls with ivory hue are preferred by people with pink complexion, red hair or even silver hair, as they do not clash with skin and hair color.

They are ideal for jewelry

Akoya pearls are the smallest pearls and have an almost perfectly round shape (since no pearl is exactly round due to its natural birth process).

Due to their unique size and shape, Akoya beads are ideal for necklaces, earrings and bracelets. They are small yet sophisticated, giving them simple elegance and graceful perfection, like the precious Akoya pearl Luna Necklace by Bernhard H. Mayer® or the timeless Diana Necklace by Bernhard H. Mayer®, which enhances the elegance of the Akoya pearls with a row of diamonds.

They are versatile

“Pearls are always appropriate” – that’s as true today as it was when Jackie Kennedy first said it.

With their shimmer, size and shape, Akoya pearls go with everything from little black dresses to airy skirts and jeans worn with a bit of sophistication. With a creation like this sophisticated Bernhard H. Mayer® Selena Set that you can remove and rearrange at will, you’ll be ready for anything!

They will last forever

Legend has it that Cleopatra once crushed a pearl in a glass of wine to prove to Antony that she could give the most expensive dinner. Pearls can be crushed (if necessary), but they can last for hundreds of years – a pearl fragment from the sarcophagus of a Persian princess dating back to 420 BC is still in the Louvre.

However, due to their natural shape, pearls must be handled with care. When wearing pearls, stick to the “last on – first off” motto, as perfume and makeup can affect the color of the pearls. Wipe them with a soft cloth after each wear and wear them often!

They have healing properties

Used on the heart chakra, Akoya beads stimulate the heart and help the wearer remain calm. They promote healthy sleep, immunity and fertility and are known for their ability to regenerate the skin, making it supple and healthy.

These wonderful gems, which are among the three birthstones of the June-born, are much more than they seem. The more you wear them, the more you shine – inside and out.

If you want to bring the healing power of the pearl to your wrist, check out the beautiful double row Greta bracelet by Bernhard H. Mayer®.