Some of Paspaley Pearling Co’s most important private pearl collections, which are on display at this year’s edition of Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW), are sure to captivate buyers at the fair.
Headlining such lustrous offerings are natural pearls fished from traditional pearling luggers, The Kuri Bay collection, which is Australia’s first harvest of cultured pearls and the Paspaley Pearl– the most important cultured pearl ever found. Most of the items showcased at its booth at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre are more for viewing and appreciation, and not for sale. Michael Bracher, executive director of Paspaley Pearling Co, commented, “We still encourage JGW participants to come by our booth to see what is possible from the rarest and largest of pearl oysters in the world.”
The company is also maintaining an upbeat outlook moving forward, adding that Australia’s wild pearl oyster beds are in wonderful health.
“We already have sufficient visibility of the natural oyster recruitment to know that the wild catch in 2025 will be excellent in terms of oyster quality,” noted Bracher. “We expect the 2025 catch will be consistent with this year’s catch.”
The quota allowance is set by the Australian fisheries department.
In addition, Australian pearls have tailwinds of support, according to the company. Desire for the category is driven primarily by a consumer who values superior quality, elegance and femininity.
“Australian South Sea pearls represent a tiny fraction of the jewellery market. However, they present one of the most exciting opportunities for any jeweller. Our pearls are well positioned to become the choice of conscientious jewellery buyers who want a product that is derived from nature with an authentic and romantic story, “remarked Bracher.