Pearls have long been revered as a symbol of elegance, luxury, and sophistication, and in Japan, the art of cultivating pearls through cultured farming has deep roots that date back over a century. One of the most famous regions for pearl farming in Japan is the picturesque Ago Bay, home to several pearl farms where experts meticulously care for oysters in the hopes of harvesting glistening white pearls.
The history of cultured pearl farming in Japan can be attributed to Kokichi Mikimoto, a local from Ago Bay who pioneered the technique of introducing artificial foreign bodies into oysters to stimulate pearl formation. Despite facing numerous challenges, Mikimoto eventually succeeded in producing a perfectly round cultured pearl, leading to the commercialization of this innovative method. Today, Japan remains a powerhouse in the global pearl market, renowned for its unmatched quality pearls.
Among the many families dedicated to pearl cultivation in Japan, the Sakaguchi family stands out as a shining example of craftsmanship and dedication. For three generations, they have painstakingly crafted pearls ranging from three to ten millimeters in diameter by delicately inserting a nucleus and donor tissue into oysters, which then coat the nucleus with layers of nacre to form the pearl over several months.
Despite the challenges posed by an aging population and urban migration, Japan continues to produce some of the finest pearls in the world. The country’s unique climate, combined with centuries of expertise in pearl cultivation, distinguish Japanese pearls from those found in other regions. Japanese cultured pearls are often cherished as family heirlooms, passed down through generations.
Even as the art of pearl farming faces modern obstacles, traditional Japanese craftsmanship perseveres, especially in families like the Sakaguchis. While the industry may have seen a decline in recent years, the unwavering dedication of these families ensures that Japan’s cultured pearls will continue to shine brightly for years to come.
Learn more about the art of pearl farming in Japan by visiting the Japan Travel website or explore a range of beautiful Japanese pearls at Mikimoto America.
