Here are a few tips to help choose Akoya pearls.

1. When choosing Akoya pearl decide if you are looking for investment grade Japanese Akoya Pearls or more affordable Chinese Akoya Pearls.

2. Choose Japanese Akoya pearls when looking for premium Akoya pearls. Be sure that the Japanese Akoya pearls are accompanied by the Japanese Tag of Quality to ensure that they were inspected by the Japanese Pearl Association.

3. Choose Chinese Akoya when looking for an affordable Akoya pearls.

4. Choose Japanese Hanadama Certified Pearl for the absolutely best Akoya in the world. Not only are you buying Japanese Akoya product but also the best in class in Japanese Akoya. PearlsOnly is product to carry Hanadama - Your Way collection for the Akoya coinsure.

5. We recommend choosing quality over quantity - and would suggest choosing a smaller size Japanese Akoya pearl vs larger Chinese Akoya pearls. Of course if your heart is set on Akoya and when working within a budget, Chinese Akoya does present an affordable alternative.

6. When comparing prices, be sure to check the origin of Akoya in your evaluation - a Japanese Akoya pearl is at least 70% more valuable than a chinese Akoya pearl.

7. Learn more about Akoya Pearls in our Akoya Education Guide.