Cook Island Black Pearls

A three string Black Pearl necklace.

The Cook Islands are famous for their Black Pearl Industry, from the perfect size and colour and size. To the odd Baroque Black pearls that have a charm of their own.

In 1982 research began into the possibility of creating a similar cultured-pearl industry in the Cook Islands. The first commercial farms were set up on Manihiki atoll in 1989 and over two million cultured oysters are presently held there. By 1994 the Manihiki lagoon was thought to be approaching its maximum sustainable holding capacity and farms began to be established on Penrhyn atoll. Hundreds of thousands of oysters are presently held at the various farms, and the Penrhyn hatchery is constantly producing more.

To establish a farm, an investment of NZ$6,000 is required, and no return will be forthcoming for five years. Yes, that is correct it takes at least five years for a mature Oyster to develop from the hatchery to mature Oyster. There are currently over 30 farms with just 20 percent of them accounting for 80 percent of the oysters. The oysters are seeded once or twice a year by Chinese workers, and it takes 18 months to two years for the pearl to develop. Of course the Oyster is about three years old before it is big enough to be seeded. All harvested pearls are inspected by the Cook Island government inspectors.

Consider purchasing a loose pearl and having it mounted back home. If you think you might do this, check with your local jeweler before leaving for Rarotonga.

Half the fun is in the shopping, so be in no hurry to decide and don't let yourself be influenced by a driver or guide who is after a commission. The best way I found is to rent your own scooter, this way no guide is involved, the shop should pay the commission to you in the form of a discount (be sure to ask). It's preferable to buy pearls at a specialized outlet rather than a souvenir shop, and never buy a pearl from a person on the street. A reputable dealer will always give you an invoice or certificate verifying the authenticity of your pearl.

Odd shaped pearls can be picked up from a dealer for as little $5.00 NZ. These can be ideal for making up drop earings and pendants. Remember that all pearls are dissolvable, so if you want your pearls cleaned, let a professional do the job. Another thing to remember is that black pearls come in various shades and matching is a very speial and laborious task and is reflected in the price you pay.