TAHITIAN BLACK PEARLS

From angel’s tears to the heads of dragons, the myths surrounding these treasures are great. Let’s explore the warm waters of Tahiti. Black Tahitian Pearls have been revered for centuries by royalty. Known as the “Pearl of Queens” and the “Queen of Pearls”, both names are a perfect fit. The origin of the black pearl is steeped in myth and legend. In the Orient, pearls are associated with the tears of angels and mermaids but in ancient China they were believed to have been conceived in the brains of dragons. Hence they are regarded as symbols of wisdom. In modern legend, pearls are thought to be born from a grain of sand that enters the oyster.

Interlace Pearl Ring

The oyster then coats the intruder and a pearl is formed. Tahitian Pearls have a modest beginning as do all cultured pearls. They start as a mother of pearl bead that is inserted into the “pearl pocket” of a mollusk. After nucleation, the mollusk is allowed to do its magic work for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 years. But this is no ordinary mollusk; it is the Pinctada Margaritifera mollusk. Reaching a size of 12 inches and 11 pounds it is one of the largest species of bivalve mollusks. The Pinctada Margaritifera, or Black Lipped Oyster, is very peculiar as it normally undergoes a change of sex during the course of its life. In the female stage the oyster can produce nearly 40 million eggs. The sheer quantity of eggs assures the survival of the species as the young are prey for most sea creatures that eat plankton. The Black Lipped Oyster is the only mollusk to produce the vibrant hues of the black pearl.

Ranging in color from dark grey, silver, eggplant to pistachio; the Tahitian Black Pearl is one of the most versatile and beautiful gems in the world. These rich colors are produced by the oyster itself and natural occurrences. The process of raising a pearl oyster is a long one and requires considerable care and attention because the species is fragile. French Polynesia's pearl farmers constantly watch over the black-lipped oyster, much like a mother lovingly protects her children. Such care can only produce some of the most magnificent gems that are perfect at birth. Coffin and Trout has fallen in love with pearls. Our new Escapade Collection showcases exquisite Tahitian Black Pearls teamed up with Golden South Sea and White South Sea Pearls.