The Pearls of Tahiti are commonly known as "Black Pearls". Ninety-five percent of the world's black pearls come from the lagoons of French Polynesia in the South Pacific. Black pearls are named after the oyster from which they are derived, the Pinctada Margaritifera, the black-lipped oyster, found in the crystal clear waters of the Tuamotus islands in French Polynesia.

It is natural to assume all black pearls to be black. In fact the colours can include black, champagne grey, peacock green, eggplant, bronze, cream, pink and gold. Value is determined by size, lustre and surface quality rather than colour, though the colours peacock green and eggplant are much appreciated by pearl connoisseurs.

Tiare Black Pearl is a little piece of Tahiti located in the mountain village of Olinda in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges, and in the picturesque seaside town of Mornington, both just one hour's drive from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. "Tiare" is the Tahitian word for the frangipani flower, the national flower of the Tahitian people, a symbol of the purity and beauty of the Tahitian landscape and way of life. Tiare Black Pearl is an initiative of Alan and Winnie Maguire, who visit Tahiti regularly and purchase only the finest pearls directly from the pearl farmers of French Polynesia.

All our pearls have been examined and received a Certificate of Conformity from the French Polynesian Customs Authority. Purchasers of our pearls receive in turn a Statement of Authenticity guaranteeing their origin and quality.

Tiare deals directly with the public but can also offer wholesale trade prices when purchased in quantities. Jewellers should contact us for access to the wholesale site. Those who have a password and user name can access the wholesale site here.