What Is a Hanadama Pearl?

What Is a Hanadama Pearl?

Hanadama Pearls are the highest grade of white Akoya pearls, certified only when they meet strict quality standards. You can see their brilliance immediately—deep luster, a clean surface, and very few blemishes. Only about 10% of all Akoya pearls qualify, which makes them truly rare. That rarity is why Hanadama Pearls are prized worldwide and chosen as meaningful gifts that last a lifetime.

Akoya Pearl Color Guide

Understanding Hanadama Colors
Hanadama Pearls typically fall within a white to soft pink color range. Within that range, there are two main types:
・Color-treated: These pearls have a stronger pink tone and are often referred to as “pink pearls.”
Untreated: These pearls remain naturally white, sometimes with a gentle pink glow, but their color is more subtle than treated pearls.

Our Color Classifications

To help you find the perfect match, we classify our Akoya (Hanadama) pearls into the following categories:
・White (Color-treated)
・White Pink (Color-treated)
・Natural White (Untreated)
・Cream (Color-treated / Untreated)
・Green
・Gray
 Note:
For pearls featuring unique hues or distinct interference colors not listed above, detailed descriptions are provided on the specific product page.

Color Descriptions on Identification Reports

Please be aware that color terminology on gemological identification reports (e.g., "White," "Green," "White Pink") may vary depending on the issuing laboratory.
These variations in phrasing are simply differences in nomenclature used by different institutions; they do not reflect a difference in the quality or value of the pearls. You can choose your pearls with confidence, regardless of the specific wording on the report.

Standards and Grading for Hanadama Pearls

To be certified as Hanadama, a pearl must meet strict standards across five areas: luster, nacre thickness, surface condition, shape, and finish. Even then, quality can vary—from pearls that just meet the minimum to those that clearly exceed it. At WSP, we choose not to carry borderline Hanadama pearls. We only select pieces that clearly rise above the standard. Because criteria vary by certifying body, pearls with similar grades can still look and feel very different.

Luster & Nacre Thickness

Pearls with exceptional luster reflect their surroundings with crisp, clear detail. The thicker the nacre layer, the stronger and more vibrant the pearl’s shine.

Blemishes & Shape

A pearl's surface is considered higher quality when it has minimal blemishes or cracks and is smaller in size. In addition, perfectly round pearls are regarded as the most ideal.

Pearl Alignment & Finish

The alignment of pearls in necklaces and the matching of pearls in sets, such as necklaces and earrings, are also key factors in the evaluation process.

Certified by Leading Pearl Research Laboratories

At WSP, our Hanadama Pearls are certified by one of Japan’s most trusted pearl research laboratories. We intentionally choose pearl-specialized institutions—not labs known for diamonds—because pearls are organic gems created by living oysters. Their structure is completely different from mineral gemstones, and that difference requires true pearl expertise. That’s why certification should always come from a laboratory dedicated to pearls.

Every Hanadama piece we offer comes with an official certificate, making it a thoughtful choice for life’s milestones—weddings, engagements, and other meaningful celebrations.

How WSP Evaluates Quality and Sets Prices

At WSP, we select pearls with one goal in mind: helping you choose truly exceptional quality with confidence.

Our experienced specialists examine each pearl by eye, one by one, using our own evaluation standards. We place the greatest emphasis on luster—the depth and strength of light that defines a pearl’s beauty. This glow comes from the balance between light reflected on the surface and light shining from within the nacre. We also carefully assess surface condition, shape consistency, and color, and reflect that quality honestly in the price.

Simply put, higher quality pearls require more time, care, and cost.

Services and Guarantees You Can Trust

Before you purchase, we offer an image request service for Hanadama necklaces. Even at the same price, pearls can vary in luster, color, and surface details. If you’re unsure about choosing online, we can photograph the exact necklace you’ll receive. Just reach out through chat support—we’re happy to help.

After your purchase, we offer a return option if the piece doesn’t feel right once you see it in person. Take time at home to review your pearl, and if it’s not the right fit, contact our support team within 7 days of delivery. Return shipping is the customer’s responsibility.
We’re here to support you in finding a pearl you can wear with confidence for years to come.

Visit Our Stores in Japan

At our directly managed stores in Japan, you can discover and experience WSP’s curated selection of brands and products—both visually and through your skin.

Our Locations

At our directly managed stores in Japan, you can explore and experience a curated selection of WSP products firsthand. Feel the quality and see the craftsmanship up close, in an environment where you can fully immerse yourself in the WSP experience.

Reviews from our customers

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