When people talk about Broome pearls, they’re referring to South Sea pearls cultivated off the coast of Western Australia, particularly around Broome.

The pearls come from the Pinctada maxima oyster – the largest pearl-producing oyster in the world. These massive molluscs can grow over 30 centimetres across, about the size of a dinner plate. The bigger the oyster, the larger the pearl it can produce.

Something special is found in the waters off Broome. According to the Western Australia Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the clean, nutrient-rich waters of Northwestern Australia provide ideal conditions for cultivating pearls.

This is because the oysters need a minimum two-year stay in such pristine conditions before they can produce quality pearls.

A unique combination of excellent water quality with ideal temperatures and nutrients creates not only a perfect home for these oysters but also directly ensures the high-quality pearls produced here.

That’s why Broome’s Australian South Sea pearl jewellery is held in such high regard worldwide.

What Makes South Sea Pearls Australia’s Claim to Fame?

Australian South Sea pearls are the luxury cars of the pearl world. They’re larger, they’re rarer, and frankly, they cost more than other varieties you’ll find out there.

  • Size matters: Broome pearls range from 8mm to 20mm, while freshwater pearls average just 6-7mm
  • Colour variety: From classic white and silver to champagne, golden and peachy-pink shades that shift in different light
  • That silvery glow: Only White South Sea pearls possess that ethereal, silvery overtone to their whiteness – not found in any other type of pearl.
  • Incredible lustre: A deep three-dimensional glow emanates from nacre, which is between two and six millimetres thick – most other pearls have less than one millimetre of nacre!
  • Light Reflection: Good quality Broome pearls catch light and reflect it in ways that make people stop and look.

These qualities are a result of the specific environmental conditions found in Australian waters, combined with the diligent efforts of local pearl farmers.

Place a Broome pearl besides any other pearl and the difference is obvious.

How to Tell If You’re Looking at a Quality South Sea Pearl

Surface Quality Matters

How many blemishes, bumps or irregularities can you count on the pearl’s surface?

A little bit is normal – these are natural gems grown inside living creatures, but marking (over-marking) disturbs both beauty and value.

The smoothest pearls with minimal surface imperfections will obviously be worth more.

Shape Counts, But Not Always in the Way You’d Expect

Perfectly round pearls are traditional and valuable. But baroque pearls (the irregular ones) have gained a massive following lately. They’ve got character. They’re distinctive.

And when set properly, they can create absolutely stunning pieces that round pearls simply can’t match.

The Lustre Test is Simple

Hold the pearl about 30cm from your face in good light. Can you see your reflection in it? Not just a vague blur, but an actual reflection? That’s good lustre.

If the pearl looks dull or chalky, walk away.

Size is Pretty Straightforward

Bigger usually means more expensive. But here’s what they don’t always tell you – a 12mm pearl with excellent lustre and minimal blemishes is worth more than a 15mm pearl with poor surface quality. Don’t just chase size.

Choosing Pearl Jewellery That Will Last Generations

So you’re sold on South Sea pearls. What now?

This is where things get personal. Unlike buying a generic piece of jewellery, choosing pearl jewellery requires you to think about your actual lifestyle, your style preferences, and how you’ll realistically use the piece. There’s no point dropping thousands on a formal pearl strand if it’s going to sit in your jewellery box for years. Let’s break down what you need to consider.

  • A pearl strand is classic, but if you’re more of an everyday jewellery person, think about stud earrings or a simple pendant instead
  • Pearl jewellery should be worn regularly, not hidden away in a safe where it won’t be enjoyed
  • White gold and platinum complement white and silver pearls beautifully, while yellow gold warms up champagne and golden pearls
  • Rose gold is having a moment right now and looks stunning with pearls that have pink overtones
  • Having access to loose pearl collections means you can hand-pick the specific pearl you want and create something completely yours
  • Consider custom designs like a modern pendant or updating a traditional strand with a contemporary clasp – you’re not limited to what’s in the display case

At Diamonds and Pearls Jewellery, our bespoke design service lets you do exactly this. Our qualified team can guide you through selecting pearls from our collection and creating a piece that fits your style and budget.

Caring for Your Investment

Pearls are organic gems. This makes them softer and more vulnerable to chemicals, drying out, and scratching than inorganic minerals like diamonds or sapphires.

However, they’re still easy to care for with a few simple practices

  • Put your pearls on as the last item when you’re getting dressed.
  • Remove them first when you get home.
  • Wipe them gently with a soft cloth after each wearing.
  • Store them separately from other jewellery that could scratch them.
  • A slightly damp soft cloth usually does the job for cleaning – if they need more, use lukewarm water with a tiny bit of mild soap.
  • Never use ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners or submerge pearl strands in water (it weakens the thread).
  • Wear them often – pearls thrive on the natural oils of your skin and will dry out if left unworn for long periods

Your South Sea pearls can remain breathtakingly beautiful for decades when you follow these very simple steps.

The tiny effort involved in giving proper care is massively rewarding, as your pearls retain their lustre and beauty year after year.

These, remember, are not merely accessories; they are investment pieces engineered to stand the test of time across generations.

Making Your Decision

If you’ve read this far, you’re probably seriously considering adding South Sea pearls to your collection. Good choice.

Quality Broome pearls are investment pieces.

When you wear Australian South Sea pearls, you’re wearing something that couldn’t have been created anywhere else in quite the same way.

Ready to explore your options? Get in touch with our team at Diamonds and Pearls Perth to discover the perfect South Sea pearl piece for you.