Tahitian Pearls: Encouraging Results from Bora Bora Auctions

Minister Temauri Foster Delivers Positive Assessment and Announces New Initiatives

During the European Development Fund (EDF) review day, the Minister of Maritime Resources, Temauri Foster, presented the promising results of the latest pearl auctions held in Bora Bora from October 4 to 6, 2010, as well as the winners of the “Most Beautiful Tahitian Pearls” competition.

A Successful Relocation of Auctions

The goal of bringing pearl auctions back to French Polynesia—to boost prices and improve producers’ income—has proven successful. The two auction sessions held on October 5 and 6 yielded encouraging results:

• 63% of the lots offered (representing 43% of the pearls up for sale) were sold.
• Average price: 1,600 FCFP per pearl (or 907 FCFP per gram), well above the 716 FCFP per pearl and 460 FCFP per gram recorded in exports since early 2020.

October 5: Top Gem, A, and B-grade pearls reached an average price of 2,863 FCFP per pearl (1,690 FCFP/gram), with some lots exceeding 30,000 FCFP per pearl.

October 6: C and D-grade pearls sold for an average of 1,316 FCFP per pearl (740 FCFP/gram).

“These results, combined with the satisfaction of international buyers and producers, confirm the value of holding auctions in Polynesia again,” stated the minister.

“Most Beautiful Pearls” Competition: Four Winners Honored

Alongside the auctions, the Pearl House (Maison de la Perle) organized a competition recognizing the finest pearls submitted by local farmers. Four exceptional pearls, selected by a jury of international buyers based on quality, luster, and shape, were awarded.

The results of the public contest, open to Polynesian voters, were revealed on November 3 during the EDF review day, marking a joint celebration of pearl excellence and the progress of the European-funded project.

A Sector in Motion

The event also highlighted the three key pillars of the EDF project:

1️⃣ Pearl farmer training: 641 sessions conducted across 20 islands.
2️⃣ Scientific research: Lagoon modeling and production optimization.
3️⃣ International market study: Strategies to enhance competitiveness.

In the presence of industry professionals, European Commission representatives, and local institutions, this review confirmed the collective commitment to a sustainable and high-performing pearl industry.

With these achievements, French Polynesia strengthens its position as a global leader in cultured pearl production, blending tradition, innovation, and economic ambition.