Once considered almost exclusively feminine adornments, Tahitian black pearls are now captivating a growing number of men—a trend Polynesian jewelers have been closely observing in recent years.
Luc Arles, manager of Arles Luc jewelry store, attributes this shift to changing male attitudes: “Men are increasingly seeking jewelry. Some, like metrosexuals, pay more attention to their appearance, adopting a more refined or even hipster style. Polynesians have always cherished pearls and feel deeply connected to these ocean treasures.”
To meet this emerging demand, jewelers are showcasing their creativity by designing masculine pearl jewelry that blends Polynesian influences with contemporary tastes. “I try to merge Polynesian motifs with tattoo-inspired designs while incorporating pearls to maintain a masculine aesthetic,” explains Arles.
This cultural evolution finds particular resonance among younger generations. “It’s great that men can wear pearls too,” remarks one local, while another adds, “They look just as good on men.”
To better understand this market shift, the Tahitian Pearl Association of French Polynesia recently conducted groundbreaking research—the first of its kind—analyzing the local black pearl market. The study reveals key consumer trends and provides valuable insights to help jewelers cater to their growing male clientele.
Leave a Reply