Here are some different kinds of pearls along with their origins, so you know where your favorite pearls come from.

1. Akoya Pearls: Cultivated primarily in Japan and China, Akoya pearls are known for their lustrous appearance and classic round shape. They are typically white or cream-colored with hints of pink and silver.

2. South Sea Pearls: South Sea pearls are cultured in the warm waters of the South Pacific, particularly in Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. These pearls are renowned for their large size, smooth surfaces, and stunning natural colors ranging from white and cream to golden and silver.

3. Tahitian Pearls: Cultivated mainly in French Polynesia, Tahitian pearls are prized for their dark and exotic colors, which range from black and gray to peacock green and blue. These pearls are known for their unique overtones and lustrous surfaces.

4. Freshwater Pearls: Produced in freshwater mollusks, primarily in China, Freshwater pearls come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They are often more affordable than saltwater pearls and are valued for their natural pastel hues and unique baroque shapes.

5. Mabe Pearls: Also known as blister pearls, Mabe pearls are grown on the inner shell of mollusks rather than in the soft tissue. They are often hemispherical in shape and are commonly used in earrings, rings, and pendants.

6. Keshi Pearls: Keshi pearls are accidental byproducts of the pearl cultivation process, forming when the mollusk rejects the implanted nucleus. They come in various shapes and sizes and are valued for their unique and irregular shapes.

Each type of pearl possesses its own distinct characteristics, making them unique and desirable for jewelry making.