Tahitian Pearls Info

Tahitian Pearls Info - All you need to know about pearl farming in French Polynesia.

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  • Assessment of the Pearl Sector Crisis in French Polynesia: 2019-2020 and Outlook for 2021

    The pearl sector in French Polynesia, already weakened before the pandemic, went through a deep crisis in 2019 and 2020, marked by a sharp decline in exports and per-gram pearl prices hitting a historic low.
    According to the latest studies published by the French Polynesian Institute of Statistics (ISPF), the crisis began well before COVID-19, with signs of decline as early as 2018.

    The statistics are alarming: the number of pearl oyster producers dropped by 8% in 2020, following a 1% decline in 2019, and farming areas shrank by 12.7% over three years. Pearl production also fell by 26%, dropping from 9.1 million to 6.7 million post-production inspected pearls.

    The price of raw pearls plummeted by 51% between 2019 and 2020, falling from 485 Fcfp to just 270 Fcfp, largely due to reduced global demand and the closure of trade routes with Asia. Exports collapsed by 70.4% over three years, with a 50% drop in 2020 alone, totaling only 2.4 billion Fcfp.

    Despite these alarming figures, early 2021 data shows a slight rebound, with exports already surpassing 2020 levels. These signs of recovery offer a glimmer of hope for the sector’s future, though structural reforms remain necessary to stabilize the industry in the long term.

  • Controversy in Rangiroa: Pearl Farm Sparks Local Tensions in Tiputa

    In Rangiroa, a controversy has erupted over the planned location of a future pearl farm in Tiputa, sparked by a petition launched by a local resident, Siméon. He is calling on the Fisheries Service to engage in dialogue with the community to discuss relocating the project, citing environmental concerns and the potential impact on local fishing.

    Siméon, a staunch opponent of the project, expresses fears about the ecological risks associated with pearl farming, particularly the introduction of non-native pearl oysters that could bring parasites into Rangiroa’s lagoon. He also points out that the chosen site is a fish spawning ground, warning that it could lead to the disappearance of certain species in the area.

    Siméon’s main argument is that the project should be moved to avoid conflicts with local fishermen and preserve the fishing zone. However, his opposition is not shared by all atoll residents. Léon, another local, recalls that a pearl farm previously operated in the same location without causing environmental issues or depleting fish stocks.

    On the other hand, Marc, a local fisherman, supports the project, emphasizing that the pearl farm operator has obtained all necessary permits and paid for his maritime concession since 2019—long before the disruptions caused by the pandemic. He suggests that the dispute may actually stem from neighborhood conflicts.

    Despite the tensions, the project’s operator has chosen not to comment on the situation. The story highlights the divisions within the local community regarding the development of the pearl industry and its impact on the environment and traditional activities.

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    Mangareva Pearl Farmers Sound Alarm: Waste, Grafters & Microplastics Top Concerns

    A pivotal meeting at Rikitea’s town hall last week brought together Mangareva’s pearl farmers to address existential threats to their industry, with three critical issues dominating discussions:

    1. Pearl Farming Waste Crisis

    • Recent studies and annual clean-up campaigns confirm uncontrolled accumulation of pearl industry waste across the Gambier Archipelago
    • Zero recycling/treatment solutions currently exist, leaving debris to pollute fragile ecosystems unchecked

    2. Foreign Grafter Shortage

    • Chinese grafters (essential for pearl cultivation) remain stranded due to unresolved entry protocols
    • Farmers await Tahiti’s decision on repatriation logistics – a make-or-break factor for farm reactivation

    3. Microplastic Contamination

    • Ifremer research reveals microplastics embedding in pearl nuclei before nacre formation
    • Microscopic analysis confirms contamination, raising alarms about:
      ✓ Pearl quality degradation
      ✓ Long-term brand integrity risks

    Context: The sector struggles to recover from pandemic impacts, with these compounding challenges threatening the economic lifeline of the islands. While the meeting marked growing awareness, stakeholders emphasize that concrete action plans must follow – before environmental and operational pressures become irreversible.

  • Black Pearls: Scientific Breakthrough Reveals Origins of Polynesian Pearl Colors

    Two groundbreaking studies published in March by Ifremer have unveiled the secrets behind the iconic hues of French Polynesia’s black pearls, offering new hope for an industry facing economic challenges.

    Conducted under the Ameligen scientific program with Criobe, private stakeholders, and local authorities, these DRM-funded studies provide crucial insights into improving pearl quality while reducing production volumes.

    The Genetics of Color: Yellow, Green & Red
    The March 15th study decoded the genetic basis of pearl coloration by analyzing pigments in donor oyster shells. Key findings:

    • 7 genes linked to yellow shells
    • 19 genes for green shells
    • 24 genes for red shells

    These base colors—when combined with black or albino nacre—directly determine a pearl’s final shade. This breakthrough could enable more consistent color production, enhancing market value.

    Depth as a Color Amplifier
    The March 19th study revealed how environmental factors, particularly farming depth, intensify hues. Researchers observed:

    • Epigenetic modifications in deep-water oysters
    • Darker pearls with richer luster (highly prized by buyers)

    Industry Implications
    These discoveries allow:
    ✔️ Precision control of cultivation conditions
    ✔️ Strategic repositioning in global markets
    ✔️ Reduced production waste

    For a sector still recovering from pandemic-related export declines, this research lights the way toward sustainable revitalization of Polynesia’s pearl industry.

  • Reject Pearls Case: French Polynesia Facing Potential 7.5 Million Fcfp Fine?

    The French Polynesian government may face another costly legal setback over its destruction of reject pearls.

    The administrative court recently examined a claim by Toanui Pearls, whose 14,175 pearls were destroyed in March 2017—just before new legislation authorized their commercialization.

    This case mirrors January’s ruling that ordered the government to pay 30 million Fcfp in compensation after destroying over 120,000 pearls previously deemed unsellable. Both judgments found the destruction orders lacked legal basis.

    While Toanui Pearls seeks 14 million Fcfp in damages, the court’s rapporteur suggested 7.5 million Fcfp as appropriate compensation, noting the pearls held verifiable market value once commercialization became permitted.

    A final ruling is expected by March 16.

    The repeated cases highlight growing legal uncertainty for pearl industry professionals, compounding pressures on a sector already weakened by years of economic challenges.

  • Econacre: Giving New Life to Tahiti’s Pearl Oyster Shells

    A mission to restore the prestige of Tahiti’s black pearl oyster shells: This is the goal of Econacre, a study launched in 2019 by the Directorate of Marine Resources and recently presented to pearl industry professionals.

    The concept? To unlock the full economic potential of mother-of-pearl beyond pearl cultivation—creating new jobs and business opportunities from this underutilized resource.

    During a workshop, pearl farmers, artisans, researchers, bankers, and entrepreneurs discussed the study’s findings and emerging opportunities. Currently, both oyster shells and flesh remain undervalued, even as the global black pearl market experiences renewed growth.

    In the past, wild pearl oyster shells could reach up to 37 cm. But intensive pearl farming has pushed traditional shell harvesting aside, leaving artisans without quality raw materials.

    The Econacre study outlines two development pathways:
    1️⃣ Local focus: Leveraging existing resources and techniques for immediate economic impact, particularly by repurposing shells from pearl farming
    2️⃣ Global ambition: Creating high-value international supply chains

    For Cédrik Lo, pearl farming project manager, preserving traditional craftsmanship while adapting to local realities is key—a vision combining lagoon conservation, job creation, and skill development across the islands.

    Identified opportunities include:
    • Enhancing oyster farming and processing
    • Expanding mother-of-pearl handicrafts
    • Developing the korori (oyster flesh) industry
    • Diversifying into agriculture, animal feed, and construction materials

    The Directorate is now supporting pilot projects to implement these initiatives. For context, nearly 1,700 tons of empty Pinctada margaritifera shells were exported in 2018, generating 210 million Fcfp—proof of an untapped economic opportunity.

    The time has come to transform this overlooked resource into a driver of sustainable development.

  • Anuanurunga For Sale: A Tuamotu Gem Seeks New Owner

    A pristine South Pacific atoll may soon change hands.

    Real estate agency Thisse is currently offering Anuanurunga Atoll for sale, located in the central-western Tuamotu archipelago between Anuanuraro and Nukutepipi.

    This isolated speck of land—part of the Duke of Gloucester Islands group alongside Anuanuraro, Nukutepipi and Herehetue—is marketed as offering “peace and tranquility in the South Pacific.” The asking price remains undisclosed.

    Anuanurunga neighbors notable properties: Anuanuraro, formerly owned by pearl magnate Robert Wan, was repurchased by the French Polynesian government in 2002; while Nukutepipi has belonged to Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté since 2007.

    Steeped in history, the atoll was first discovered in 1606 by a Spanish expedition that named the archipelago “Cuatro Coronas” (Four Crowns). Today, a new chapter begins for Anuanurunga—its future awaiting the right buyer.


  • Covid-19: Polynesian Pearl Farmers Worry Over Chinese Worker Restrictions

    Recent coronavirus prevention measures announced by the French Polynesian government are raising growing concerns in the pearl industry.

    The temporary suspension of work permits for Chinese nationals, coupled with recommendations for workers currently in China to delay their return, could directly impact pearl production.

    While these decisions are understood from a public health standpoint, they add strain to an already vulnerable sector. The majority of pearl grafters—a crucial link in the production chain—are Chinese and typically return home for Lunar New Year celebrations. Uncertainty over their timely return now threatens to delay operations.

    Rainui Sanquer, President of the GIE Poe no Raromatai, stressed that “without grafters, there is no production,” highlighting the urgent need for solutions.

    Pearl dealers share similar concerns. Sabine Lorillou, President of Tahiti’s Cultured Pearl Merchants Association, warned of potential supply disruptions: “There could certainly be a slight break in the supply rhythm. So this does pose a problem…”

    Should restrictions extend beyond three to four months, the consequences could be severe for an industry already grappling with market volatility. A race against time appears underway to maintain the fragile balance of French Polynesia’s pearl economy.

  • Pearl Destruction: French Polynesia Ordered to Pay 30 Million Fcfp to Trader

    A legal setback for French Polynesia: The Paris Administrative Court of Appeal has ordered the government to pay 30 million Fcfp (French Pacific francs) to the company Raipoe International following the destruction of over 120,000 low-grade pearls in March 2017.

    At the time, the destruction was justified under a 2005 resolution prohibiting the sale and export of pearls deemed imperfect. However, the court ruled that this regulatory basis was “entirely lacking legal foundation” on this matter.

    The court determined that the government had no right to seize and destroy goods belonging to a private company, thereby violating its property rights.

    Initially, Raipoe International had sought 86 million Fcfp in damages. The court ultimately awarded 30 million, taking into account a key factor: the enactment, just months later, of a new law legalizing the sale of such pearls. This legislative change caused market prices to drop, thereby limiting the financial harm suffered.

    The ruling highlights a paradoxical situation: The government has been penalized for acting on an illegal regulation, while subsequent legalization of pearl sales ultimately mitigated the economic consequences.

  • The Challenge of Pearl Farming: Preserving Lagoons to Save Polynesia’s Pearl Industry

    A recent pearl farming seminar in Polynesia addressed a crucial issue for the industry’s future: lagoon preservation.

    The government announced its support for establishing a system to repatriate pearl farming waste but clarified that it would not be directly involved in underwater cleanup, leaving this responsibility to pearl farmers.

    Tearii Alpha, Minister of the Blue Economy, emphasized that pearl farmers, as beneficiaries of the industry, are responsible for lagoon quality. While the government pledged logistical support for waste management, professionals will have to handle the practical aspects of underwater cleanup to safeguard the lagoons and ensure the industry’s sustainable development.

    The health of the lagoons is becoming increasingly critical for the future of pearl farming, especially as environmental concerns—particularly microplastic contamination—threaten pearl oyster survival. Newly established management committees will monitor the situation and coordinate lagoon cleanup efforts.

    The government also stressed the need for sustainable solutions to manage pearl farming waste and encouraged greater transparency in this area. Tearii Alpha highlighted the urgency of action while underscoring the importance of collective efforts to ensure quality and accountability in the sector.

    Following the seminar, several decisions were made to redefine pearl farming regulations: a freeze on new concessions, a production cap of 2,500 pearls per hectare to prevent oversupply, promotion of auction sales, and stronger support for local employment in the islands. These measures will be formalized in upcoming regulatory reforms.