Why Are Black Tahitian Pearls Expensive?

Tahitian black pearls are expensive because they are the only ones to come by the color naturally. They are considered the rarest pearl on the market---so much so that it's difficult to create a matched set of jewelry with them.

Color

The color alone makes Tahitian pearls valuable. A truly black pearl is rare; Tahitian pearls actually range in color from silver to gray with blue, purple and green overtones.

Oysters

Few of the black-lipped Pinctada Margaritifera oysters that create the pearl survive long enough to form one.

Time Frame

It takes a long time for just one black pearl to form: about 2 to 3 years.

Individuality

No two pearls are alike; each has a different size and shade of black, making it difficult to create a string of them with a uniform look.

Size

Since these pearls average about 13 mm in size, people who want larger ones (14 or 15 mm) can expect to pay even more, since the bigger the pearl, the more rare it is.

Delicate

Pearls are delicate; they are a soft stone that can easily be scratched, so they must be worn and handled carefully to avoid damage.

References

• All About Pearl: Tahitian Pearls
• Dart Creations: Black Tahitian Pearl Necklace
• Pearl Paradise: Learn About Tahitian Pearls