In just over a year since its creation, the French Polynesia Pearl Federation (FPPF) has transformed into a powerhouse for promoting Tahitian pearls worldwide. Through strategic missions to Paris, Monaco, Moscow, and Las Vegas, leaders Jeanne Lecourt and Marcelle Howard have positioned Polynesia’s “black gold” at the heart of international jewelry conversations.
From Ashes to Global Stage
Born in February 2014 to fill the void left by the dissolved Pearl House, the FPPF has:
✔ United 30 pearl farmers, 60 artisans, and industry professionals
✔ Secured a vice-presidency at CIBJO’s Pearl Commission (World Jewellery Confederation)
✔ Become a key player in developing global pearl classification standards
Strategic Wins
- Corrected misinformation about Tahitian pearls in Air France’s in-flight magazine
- Partnered with Air Tahiti Nui to target 4,500+ American jewelers
- Made waves at the JCK Las Vegas Show, the world’s largest jewelry trade event
- Preparing to host international buyer delegations for direct farmer-to-market connections
What’s Next?
The FPPF is:
🔹 Establishing permanent Papeete headquarters
🔹 Launching specialized committees to deepen international partnerships
🔹 Launching an awareness campaign in France, where Tahitian pearls remain undervalued
“Our strength lies in unity—connecting local growers to global opportunities,” says Lecourt. With its grassroots energy and global ambitions, the FPPF is rewriting the future of Polynesia’s most iconic gem.
Did You Know? Tahitian pearls account for 87% of French Polynesia’s exports, yet most French citizens couldn’t identify their origin. The FPPF aims to change that—one pearl at a time.
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