Tahitigyöngy

Tahitigyöngy is the Hungarian name for the black pearl, a gemstone of significant value and allure. These pearls are primarily cultivated in the French Polynesian islands, most notably Tahiti, hence their common English designation. Unlike most pearls which are white or cream-colored, Tahitian pearls are renowned for their dark, iridescent hues, ranging from deep black and charcoal to shades of peacock green, blue, silver, and aubergine.

The unique coloration of Tahitian pearls is a result of the Pinctada margaritifera oyster, also known as the black-lipped oyster. The nacre, or iridescent layer, deposited by this mollusk is naturally dark, giving the pearls their characteristic depth. The size of Tahitian pearls typically ranges from 8 to 16 millimeters, though larger specimens are occasionally found. Their shape can vary, with round pearls being the most prized and valuable, followed by drop, oval, and baroque shapes.

The cultivation process for Tahitian pearls is labor-intensive and requires a specific environment. Oysters are seeded with a bead and a piece of mantle tissue, and then returned to the ocean for a period of 18 months to 2 years to develop the pearl. Factors such as water quality, temperature, and disease can affect the success rate of cultivation. Tahitian pearls are often used in fine jewelry, admired for their exotic beauty and the rich, mysterious aura they possess. Their rarity and the sophisticated color palette contribute to their high market value.