Fluctuating commodity prices and shifting consumer preferences are driving increased demand for smaller pearls, while larger, high-quality pearls continue to be luxurious and highly sought after, according to Hong Kong-based Rio Pearl.

A surge in precious metal prices, gold in particular, is altering the jewellery landscape, requiring industry players to constantly adapt to new normals. For instance, retailers are changing the type of products they are offering to clients. 

“For pearls, smaller sizes are becoming more in demand than larger pearls, but the production of high-quality larger sizes is also becoming rarer,” explained Terence Lee, director of Rio Pearl.

Specifically, smaller pearls of 8mm to 12mm in diameter are moving fast while larger ones of 15mm and above remain expensive.

Rio Pearl is integrating these trends into its pearl jewellery designs. The company is launching more vibrant, affordable pearl jewellery collections that also feature coloured gemstones. 

“This infusion of colour brings new life to our designs, and it marks an exciting beginning for spring,” noted Lee. “It is also important to continue promoting pearls as a sustainable gemstone and an accessible form of luxury for consumers.”
 

White South Sea pearl from Rio Pearl

Pearl diversity

Rio Pearl currently produces 30 per cent white South Sea pearls. By the end of 2026, the company is expecting to meet its target of a 50/50 split in production of white and golden South Sea Pearls, ahead of schedule. 

This is on top of a 20 per cent rise in overall production. Lee commented, “This is significant as we only started launching our white South Sea pearls in January 2024. We have been very aggressive in our push to diversify our production.”

Rio Pearl is likewise expanding its auction schedule, offering customers a wider range of options. Its pearls are now displayed in Hong Kong and Japan, while all goods can be viewed online since 2021, allowing it to reach a broader customer base at every auction. 

The company has completed two auctions this year and its next auction is scheduled to take place in April in Japan and Hong Kong.

White South Sea pearl ring with blue topaz and sapphires by Rio Pearl

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