Mikimoto

In 1893, Kokichi Mikimoto, a man dedicated to pearls, forever changed the jewelry industry by creating the world's first cultured pearls. Nicknamed the 'Pearl King,' he transformed pearls from a luxury reserved for the wealthy to a widely accessible treasure. Driven by the scarcity of natural pearls—found in less than one in a thousand oysters—Mikimoto's innovation made his dream of adorning women worldwide a reality. His company, Mikimoto, continues to honor his legacy, cultivating exquisite pearls, including the sought-after South Sea varieties.

Today, Mikimoto is still very much known for being the premier name in cultured pearls. The company is a leading designer, creating elegant and sophisticated pieces that range from classic pearl strands to contemporary designs incorporating pearls with other precious gemstones.