Our pearls
Pearls have long been associated with luxury, sophistication, and timeless beauty. As a result, pearl jewellery has been cherished by cultures around the world for centuries.
Combined with the artistry of jewellery craftsmanship
The allure of pearls, combined with the artistry of jewellery craftsmanship, results in creations of pearl jewellery that captivates the imagination and serve as cherished heirlooms.
As a family business now managed by the third Aminoff generation, we have gained and developed relationships with select pearl farms in China, Japan, French Polynesia and Australia. As a result, we maintain access to the world’s finest pearls in each category, at the most competitive prices in the market.
South sea
Grown in the Pinctada Maxima (or the silver lipped oyster), South Sea pearls are harvested in sea waters around Australia, and are available in sizes from 8-20mm.
A combination of factors such as harvesting period, size, colour and lustre can produce extremely valuable South Sea pearls, commanding the highest prices of all cultured pearls. Due to their impressive size, satin-white colour and exceptional size, South Sea pearls are used in some of today’s finest jewellery pieces.
Tahitian
Tahitian pearls are harvested in Tahiti and French Polynesia, and are the only species available naturally in silver, grey and black colours.
Grown in the Pinctada Margaritifera (or the black-lipped oyster), Tahitian pearls are available in sizes from 8-20mm, and dark shades such as silver, grey, peacock, pistachio, and black. Our offering of Tahitian pearls includes fancy shapes such as oval, button and baroque.
Akoya
Akoya pearls are cultivated in sea waters around Japan and are considered the most iconic species of cultured pearl. Available in sizes from 3-10mm, Akoya pearls are white in colour, and often found with undertones of cream, pink and green.
Genuine AAA quality Akoya pearls will have the following distinctive characteristics: perfectly round shape, 95% clean surfaces, thicker average nacre, and slight undertones of pink. We are the leading suppliers of genuine AAA quality Akoya pearls, maintaining a consistent supply throughout the year, following each major harvest.
Freshwater
As the name suggests, the Freshwater mussel (or bivalve) is harvested in lakes and rivers as opposed to saltwater, and each is capable of producing numerous pearls in a single harvest.
Grown in mussels rather than Oysters, Freshwater pearls are the most widely cultivated and are used extensively in the production of contemporary jewellery due to their versatility. They are available in sizes from 1-20mm, vibrant colours such as pink, lavender and peach, and a variety of shapes such as round, oval, button and baroque.
Our directors attend pearl farms and auctions throughout the year in Japan, Australia, Indonesia and Tahiti, searching for the most outstanding loose pearls and strands. Of our Akoya pearls, we are the only European supplier of genuine AAA quality, a category which is less than 5% of the annual Akoya pearl harvest. We also offer an extensive range of Freshwater pearls, covering every size, quality and colour shade available.
How to care for your Pearls
Pearls are organic gems composed of calcium carbonate, and they require specific care to ensure that their quality is maintained over time. They can be harmed by contact with chemicals found in many household cleaners, perfumes, cosmetics and hair care products.
Put your pearls on last after applying any make-up and perfume and take them off first. Don’t store your pearls with other jewellery as they can be scratched easily when metal or gemstones rub against them.
Gently wipe your pearls with a soft cloth after you remove them for the day. A pearl’s lustre can be damaged by even the smallest amount of perspiration, and removing this moisture from the pearls after each use helps preserve their lustre.