Mikimoto

Mikimoto is a Japanese luxury jewelry company renowned for cultured pearls. It was founded by Kokichi Mikimoto (1858–1954), who developed the method to cultivate pearls in the late 19th century and produced the first cultured pearl in 1893, a breakthrough that transformed the pearl industry. Mikimoto established a company to commercialize cultured pearls, and his work led to the widespread availability of high-quality pearls beyond natural pearls.

The brand is associated with Akoya pearls, originally cultured in saltwater oysters from Japan, and is known for high standards of quality. Mikimoto expanded into finished jewelry and global retail, with flagship stores in Tokyo’s Ginza district and other major cities. The Mikimoto Pearl Island and Pearl Museum in Ago Bay, Shima, Mie Prefecture, preserves the history of cultured pearls and the Mikimoto family’s contributions.

Today Mikimoto operates as a multinational luxury jewelry house, producing and selling pearl jewelry, strands, and accessories, including Akoya, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls. The company emphasizes craftsmanship, education on pearl culture, and sustainability initiatives in pearl farming and supply chains.