Pearls of Wisdom: What Makes Freshwater and Saltwater Pearls So Different?
In honour of June—Pearl Month—we’re diving deep into the luminous world of pearls. From classic strands to modern essentials, pearls continue to enchant with their timeless appeal. At Penchant Fine Jewellery, we’re celebrating with exclusive sales on selected pearl items, the launch of new content on pearl care, and a spotlight on our beloved Pearl Essentials Collection. But first, let’s explore one of the questions we get asked most: What is the difference between freshwater and saltwater pearls?
Freshwater pearls are cultivated in mussels that live in lakes, rivers, and ponds, primarily in China. Saltwater pearls, on the other hand, are grown in oysters in the ocean. The most well-known saltwater pearls include Akoya, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls.
“On a visit to Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, I had the unforgettable experience of witnessing the delicate process of Akoya pearl farming. The care, time, and technique behind each gem gave me a deep appreciation for their luminous perfection.” -Jackie Hahn, Lead Designer & Owner of Penchant Fine Jewellery.
Freshwater pearls often come in a wider variety of shapes (baroque, oval, button) and natural pastel colours.
Saltwater pearls are generally rounder and have a higher lustre, especially Akoya pearls which are known for their brilliant mirror-like shine.
Saltwater pearls typically have a thinner nacre because of their bead-nucleus method of cultivation. Freshwater pearls, however, often consist of solid nacre, making them durable and excellent for everyday wear.
Saltwater pearls are rarer, take longer to produce, and often come at a higher price point. Freshwater pearls offer variety, affordability, and natural charm—a perfect choice for modern, versatile styling.
Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of Akoya or the organic individuality of freshwater pearls, each type has its own charm. At Penchant, our Pearl Essentials Collection is designed for women who love the soft gleam of pearls in easy-to-wear, updated silhouettes.
Explore timeless studs, modern pendants, and reimagined strands that complement both weekend outfits and special occasions.
Caring for pearls isn’t complicated, but it does require a gentle touch. Look out for our upcoming video series where we’ll show you:
– How to clean pearls without damaging them
– Why you should never soak them
– How often to restring your pearls (and why it matters)
Pearls are organic gems, and with just a little knowledge and care, they can last a lifetime—and longer.
Whether you’re shopping for a birthstone gift, celebrating a milestone, or simply treating yourself, now is the perfect time to explore our Pearl Essentials Collection. Visit us in-store or follow us on social media for updates on our June Pearl Super Sales. You can also shop the full collection online:
For those who want to go deeper into the world of pearls, we recommend:
