An abridged version of this article first appeared in the JNA July/August 2023 issue.  

One of the pioneers of the pearl trade, Robert Wan brought the alluring Tahitian pearl to the forefront of the international jewellery industry. Since his first encounter with Tahitian pearls in 1973, Wan has dedicated his life to producing, promoting and elevating the gem in the eyes of the public.

In 1984, he acquired the South Marutea atoll in Polynesia’s Tuamotu Gambier archipelago, whose pristine conditions enabled the cultivation of Tahitian pearls of outstanding lustre, size and colour.

In 1998, he started joining Hong Kong pearl auctions, bringing the “Robert Wan” brand of Tahitian pearls to more players in the international market.

Known as the “Emperor of Tahitian Pearls,” Wan has firmly cemented his indisputable standing as a pioneering great in the annals of the gem, from developing innovative pearling techniques and building a reputation for exceptional Tahitian pearls to establishing the Robert Wan Pearl Museum in Papeete and creating his own luxury pearl jewellery line.

His namesake brand, Robert Wan Tahiti, defined luxury pearl jewellery to generations of consumers and, to this day, inspires jewellers and designers seeking to imbue their creations with sophistication, elegance and calm confidence. The brand’s exquisite collections of top-tier Tahitian pearl jewellery have won over high-end consumers around the world.

One of Wan’s proudest achievements was when his Tahitian pearls received the prestigious Gemological Institute of America certificate, elevating them to the same status as diamonds and other precious gems.

 

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