The inventor of the cultured pearl
A fabulous idea
You can only think about cultured pearls if you think of Kokichi Mikimoto. The king of cultured pearls began his operation in 1893. At the time, only a few believed in what this merchant’s son was trying to accomplish. However, self-sacrifice and hard work, two essential values in this Japanese creator’s work, enabled him to move mountains and achieve his goals.
Rivalling the beauty of Akoya pearls from the South Seas of Japan, Kokichi Mikimoto began harvesting and then attempting to reproduce the qualities of the natural pearls that fascinated him. He quickly discovered his raw talent and began to craft jewellery using great skill and technique. More than a century later, his legacy remains firmly intact in jewellery.
From Tokyo to Place Vendôme
Recognised worldwide, Mikimoto symbolises natural luxury and artistic expression at its highest.
Presently, the brand’s workshops in Tokyo design remarkable collections each season known for their stunning pearls and sparkling gemstones. In 1986, a Mikimoto boutique was established in the heart of the Parisian jewellery district, Place Vendôme.
At Mikimoto, the pearl is the central element that the House has developed over decades. Akoya pearls reveal a striking whiteness and a satin sheen that shimmers in the light. They are used to design high-end jewellery that shines with natural beauty. The brand’s emblematic piece, the pearl necklace, is a prime example of the brand’s signature look and is available in countless variations.
Collections: Japanese inspiration
A prolific universe
It is, of course, impossible to list all of Mikimoto’s creative achievements. Mikimoto has launched successful collection after successful collection year after year! Women looking for luxury and elegance find the brand’s pieces hard to resist. For example, a row of yellow gold pearls set with large white cultured pearls, dangling earrings or the platinum Neo Vintage ring adorned with a stunning pearl set with diamonds.
Sapphire is also used in many pieces. However, pearls are always the focal point, whether white, gold or black!
Gold and white pearls with diamonds
Some pieces are sold in limited editions, such as the famous Möbius necklace crafted with white gold, pearls and diamonds. All of the pieces are beautiful and refined. The Princess Grace tiara collection (2001) and the Pearls in Motion collection with its movable pearls are perfect examples of the brand’s signature look.
Another best-seller, the recent Splash collection, features pearls and diamonds that burst from the centre of a splash-like form.
The following lists some of Mikimoto’s other vital collections:
- Gypsy earrings: featuring cultured pearls and diamonds mounted on white gold
- Saturn ring: crafted in platinum, with white pearls and diamonds
- Night and Day necklace: made with Akoya pearls, onyx and diamonds set in platinum
The legend of Mikimoto
A great inventor
Born in Japan in 1858, Kokichi Mikimoto quickly made oyster farming his favourite activity. He was passionate about pearls and worked to use various techniques to improve their brilliance and lustre.
In 1890, he patented a technique that revolutionised the field of pearl cultivation. Three years later, he succeeded in obtaining the first semi-spherical cultured pearl. Ten years later, he became a master in producing pearls with impeccable surfaces.
Marilyn Monroe’s honeymoon necklace
Mikimoto opened his first pearl shop in 1899. During his lifetime, his creations became increasingly prestigious. For example, he created a replica of the Philadelphia Freedom Bell for the New York World’s Fair (1939). This famous necklace by Joe DiMaggio gave to Marilyn Monroe on their honeymoon (1954), and the Prelude brooch, which won the Diamond International Awards (1969).
Today, Mikimoto is growing a new variety of oyster pearls discovered in 2000. Mikimoto remains the world’s leading producer of branded cultured pearls created on his pearl cultivation farm located on the island of Aoshima.
Your Mikimoto jewellery at Basic Mercat jewellery and watch retailer in Andorra
The Andorran Jewelry Store’s Address - purchase Mikimoto jewelry in Andorra
Basic Mercat luxury jewellery and watch retailer
Basic Mercat jewellery and watch retailer is located in the capital of the Principality, Andorra la Vella. The boutique is open daily from 10 AM to 2 PM and 4 PM to 8 PM - Av. Meritxell, 50, AD500 Andorra la Vella.
Check the availability of your Mikimoto jewelry at Basic Mercat Jeweler before purchasing it in Andorra
To purchase Mikimoto jewellery in Andorra or other luxury jewellery pieces by prestigious brands, feel accessible to contact Basic Mercat to check the availability of the articles that interest you.
