The independent pearl encyclopedia
A worldwithin a pearl.
Born in water. Shaped by nature. Rich with meaning.
Discover the beauty, science and stories of pearls,
one fascinating detail at a time.
A little knowledge.
A deeper appreciation.
closer
01 / The pearl atlas
Many origins.
Singular beauty.
Meet the four principal cultured pearl families.
Every one has a story worth knowing.
4 pearl families shown
Akoya
The classic, with a brilliant reflection.
Freshwater
A wonderfully varied world of its own.
Tahitian
Dark beauty. Unexpected overtones.
South Sea
An invitation to look a little closer.
Illustrations explore appearance. Color and shape alone cannot establish a pearl’s identity or origin.
Nacre, an intimate view · Illustrative artwork02 / Beneath the surface
Beauty is
in the layers.
A pearl’s glow begins with nacre. Layer by delicate layer, its structure interacts with light to create the luster and shifting colors that invite a second look.
Learn to see the difference between bodycolor, overtone and orient. There’s more here than meets the eye.
The language of color & lightLight tells the story.
03 / Beyond white
Find a shade
of fascination.
From a whisper of rose to a deep charcoal.
Let a little curiosity color your world.
A study in color
Soft white
Quiet luminosity. A familiar starting point with a whole world of subtle overtones.
Explore this color04 / A good question is a beginning
Wondering about
your pearls?
Clear answers for the things
you’ve always wanted to ask.
Are my pearls real?
Safe checks, misleading clues and when a lab helps.
Which pearls should I buy first?
Choose type, diameter and length for the way you dress.
Dyed black pearls or Tahitian?
Separate pearl type, treated color and imitation.
What should I do with inherited pearls?
Decide whether to repair, identify, insure or sell.
What does AAA really mean?
Compare quality factors instead of unexplained letters.
How do I clean and restring pearls?
Care steps, old silk and signs it is time for repair.
05 / Notes from the field guide
For a lifetime
with pearls.
The first chapter
Your first pearls. Your own way.
Find the type, size and length that feel like you.
Made to be kept
A little care. A lasting connection.
Gentle habits for the pearls you love and live in.
More than an object
The stories we give our pearls.
Birthstones, traditions and meanings made personal.
Curiosity, with clarity.
Beautiful things deserve
thoughtful explanations.
Our guides connect the wonder of pearls with practical knowledge.
Material facts come with visible sources. Personal meanings stay personal.
So you can explore, choose and care with a little more confidence.