Cook Islands Pearling Developments

[purlgurl]

My friends returned from Cook Islands, with an appreciation of pearls, but sadly, they couldnt decide on their favorites. They obviously needed an on hand pearl advisor with them, & I have graciously offered my services for their next visit. They did say they were impressed with the friendliness and really felt they were being looked after, even though the wires got a bit crossed. They told Bergman & sons that their contact was me in Melbourne, & Bergmans have never heard of me! Nice to know they were treated so well with such a tenuous connection.
Pearl people are nice!

[aquarian]

I have just returned from the Cook Islands and had a quick day stay in Rarotonga. One thing that I noticed via a quick trip around the markets was that they only had the black pearls and everything seemed really expensive (like NZ$300+ for one pearl). It isn't helping their industry as the baroque pearls are just as sought after by the tourists (me included) especially as I would have liked to add a Cook Island pearl something to my collection.

[pattye]

Sorry you missed out on the Cook Islands pearl. There is a trusted seller, Carolyn Ehret (also a member here) on ebay that carries them--not sure how the price compares tho http://shop.ebay.com/druzydesign/m.h....c0.m270.l1313

You reminded me of the last time I was in Mexico, wanting an inlaid abalone shell necklace, looked all over, finally found "the one" at the airport shop on the way home! Not a romantic story to tell, but love the piece!

[smetzler]

The suggestion to purchase from Carolyn Ehret is best, she has top quality from one of the best farmers on Manihiki atoll. Aside from pricing (no higher than Rarotonga retail) you don't have to wade through the junk. Pearl retail on Rarotonga reflects the 'splendid isolation' of the place, where they tend to make their own rules. I must say my novitiate experience with black pearls there was a primary factor in pushing me towards naturals.

It's been two years since we've been to Rarotonga, meanwhile the 'Avaiki' grading system has been introduced. It would be interesting to see if this is having the desired positive effect on image, or if it has even been implemented in any serious or uniform manner.

[aquarian]

Thanks for the link to Carolyn eBay store and her prices are about half of the markets (just as a guide). Now time to get that PayPal account up so I can go shopping!!!!!

[pattye]

Hi Aquarian,

Should have also mentioned, Carolyn will likely have items not yet listed, so if you want a particular size and shape or color pearl, just email her to see what's available.

[aquarian]

Thanks I will be keeping that in mind But first I must sew like there is no tomorrow to pay for my last "pearl excursion" that pesky credit card bill just arrived... ouch!.

[pearlacce]

Wow! I like the bracelets. The pearls look quite unique.

[namdrikalele]

Josh,

These are very interesting discussions and speaking of temperature of the lagoon, how should be measure and what should a pearl farmer look out for as a result of rise or decrease in temperature? Can you elaborate how this has an impact on the color of pearls and/or whether they determine the successful harvest or not? Many thanks and good to hear and learn from you all.