• There are many varieties of pearls.pearls image by cherie from Fotolia.com
  
  Pearls represent a classic jewelry option for many different outfits and occasions. Many different types of pearls exist; the five major types of pearls are Akoya pearls, black pearls, freshwater pearls, Tahitian pearls and South Sea pearls.
  
  

Akoya Pearls

• Akoya pearls are created by the Pinctada fucata oyster. Akoya pearls measure an average of 6 to 7 mm and can be a range of colors, including cream, yellow, white, pink and blue. Japan and China produce the most Akoya pearls.
  
  

Black Pearls

• True black pearls are created by the Pinctada margaritifera oyster, the Pinctada mazatlanica oyster or the Pteria sterna oyster. Other pearls that have been dyed black are sometimes referred to as black pearls.
  
  

Freshwater Pearls

• Freshwater pearls grow in mussels in freshwater bodies of water like lakes, rivers and ponds. Most freshwater pearls are grown in China. Freshwater pearls take approximately 3 to 7 years to form and measure an average of 6 mm.
  
  

Tahitian Pearls

• Tahitian pearls are created by Pinctada margaritifera cumingi oysters and are cultured in French Polynesia. Tahitian pearls take only 22 to 26 months to form and measure an average of 9 to 10 mm. Tahitian pearls can be black, green, peacock and gray.
  
  

South Sea Pearls

• South Sea pearls are formed by Pinctada maxima oysters. South Sea pearls measure an average of 13 mm and form in 20 to 24 months. They can be silver, white, gold and blue.