Born to a noodle-shop owner, Japanese jeweler Kokichi Mikimoto (1858–1954) worked in the seafood business before shifting his focus to pearl cultivation. In 1893, he successfully developed the world’s first cultured pearls with a semispherical specimen. His further experimentation would include black and white South Sea pearls. This development gave Mikimoto a supply of what had once been a notoriously rare natural element and earned him the nickname “The Pearl King.” As he once said, “My dream is to adorn the necks of all women around the world with pearls.”
In 1899 in Tokyo’s Ginza district, Mikimoto opened his first, eponymous store in a white-stone building reminiscent of the color of pearls. He quickly earned a reputation for dazzling designs that blended Japanese craftsmanship and European influence. Mikimoto sent his jewelers to Europe to study the latest trends in jewelry and design; they brought back knowledge of Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles, which were incorporated into designs featuring Mikimoto’s pearls.
But Mikimoto’s creations were not met with enthusiasm by all. In 1921, a London newspaper called the designer’s jewelry “only imitations of real pearls” and claimed the company was “misleading” its customers. It developed into a lawsuit in the French courts, which ruled in Mikimoto’s favor, and raised the jeweler’s global profile.
He also brought his work international acclaim through exhibitions and world’s fairs, including the 1926 Sesquicentennial Exposition in Philadelphia where he unveiled a replica of the Liberty Bell covered with pearls. In 1927, Mikimoto met with Thomas Edison, who gave the jeweler’s invention probably its best compliment: “It is one of the wonders of the world that you were able to culture pearls. . . . This isn’t a cultured pearl, it’s a real pearl.”
Following World War II, Mikimoto opened stores around the world, with locations now in Paris, New York City, Los Angeles and Shanghai. Though its founder died in 1954, the Mikimoto company has continued to build on the legacy he established, producing collections of pearl necklaces and other pearl-centric jewelry that span a wide range of styles.
In 2017, the brand reopened its flagship Tokyo store, tapping architect Hiroshi Naito to design a new glittering facade whose 40,000 tiny glass plates are meant to evoke the movement of the ocean as they catch the light. The place where Mikimoto had his legendary success over a century ago is now known as Mikimoto Pearl Island and includes a museum on his life and pearls. A highlight is the “Boss’s Necklace,” which was the first made by Mikimoto and is the model for all the brand’s classic strands that have followed.
Find Mikimoto pendant necklaces, choker necklaces and a range of other jewelry on 1stDibs.
Estate Giant Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Diamond Screw Back Bubble Earrings in 18K Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in GOES, NL
These exceptional Mikimoto earrings are a true celebration of timeless luxury and craftsmanship. Set with brilliant diamonds and exquisite Akoya pearls, they embody the brand’s legen...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Stud Earrings - Yellow Gold 18k
By Mikimoto
Located in Greensboro, NC
Brand: Mikimoto Metal Content: 18k Yellow Gold Stone Information Akoya Pearls Size: 6.8mm Style: Stud Fastening Type: Butterfly Closures Measurements Diameter: 9/32" (6.8mm) W...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto 13mm Golden South Sea Pearl 18K Stud Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Miami, FL
A timeless pair of vintage pearl studs by Mikimoto, featuring lustrous golden South Sea pearls with beautiful natural warmth and glow. Perfectly matched and classically set, these el...
South Sea Pearl, 18k Gold
Mikimoto, 18 Karat White Gold and Cultured Pearl Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Chicago, IL
These classic Mikimoto earrings feature a signature twisted design. Each earring is set with a luminous 7.00 mm cultured pearl drop. A timeless blend of classic pearls and Mikimoto's...
Pearl, Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
Mikimoto Akoya Pearls Stud - Yellow Gold 18k Pierced
By Mikimoto
Located in Greensboro, NC
Retail Price: $940 Brand: Mikimoto Metal Content: 18k Yellow Gold Stone Information Cultured Akoya Pearls Size: 7-7.1mm Stone Note: A+ quality Style: Stud Fastening Type: Butter...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto 18 Karat Yellow Gold Pearl Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Dallas, TX
From the famous designer Mikimoto, these lovely pierced/clip earrings are light and comfortable on the ear! Both earrings are stamped 750 (18 karat) and with the trademark for Mik...
Pearl, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
MIKIMOTO Pave Diamond Pearl Double Flower 18k Yellow Gold Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in New York, NY
These timeless Mikimoto earrings are crafted in 18k yellow gold and set with cultured pearls and round brilliant-cut E-F VVS1-VVS2 diamonds. Made in Japan circa 2000s. Measurements: ...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
MIKIMOTO Akoya Pearl Stud Earrings in 18kt yellow Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in Aventura, FL
These classic Mikimoto stud earrings are crafted in 18-karat yellow gold, each set with a luminous 7.6 mm Akoya pearl. The pin posts are stamped “M” for Mikimoto and “750” for 18-kar...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto Black South Sea Pearls & Diamond Dangle Earrings, 18k White Gold, 2 In.
By Mikimoto
Located in McLeansville, NC
Stones: diamond, 2 round brilliant cut 2.7 mm approximately .15 total carats FG color/ VS1-2 clarity black south sea pearls round bead 8.6 - 10.2 mm Length: 2 in. Weight: 4.9 dwts....
Diamond, South Sea Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
Mikimoto Pearl Diamond 18 Karat Yellow Gold Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Dallas, TX
Such a classic look from famed designer Mikimoto! The beautiful pearls measure 6.00 mm - 7.00 mm each and are accented with round diamonds.
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto 5.3 mm Akoya Pearl Post Earrings 18k Yellow Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in Kobe, Hyogo
Item: Authentic Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Post Earrings Stones: 5.3 mm, 5.3 mm Akoya Pearl Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Weight: 1.3 Grams (total) Condition: Used ( in very good condition ) Ret...
Pearl, 18k Gold
$232Sale Price|20% Off
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Clip-on Earrings Sterling Silver 6.19 mm
By Mikimoto
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Clip-On Earrings Sterling Silver 6.19 mm 3.20 Grams M435 These elegant Authentic Mikimoto Estate Akoya pearl clip-on earrings are made of sterling silver...
Pearl, Sterling Silver
Mikimoto Earrings. 18k Gold Mikimoto Pearl Dangle Earrings. Unpierced Clip on
By Mikimoto
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stunning Designer earrings. World Renowned MIKIMOTO pearls. Un- Pierce Screw Back Dangle Earrings. Pearls have amazing luster. Dangle Design with leaves Condition: Shows no signs of wear. Details: hallmark M...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto Cultured Pearl and Diamond Dangle Pierced Earrings 18 Karat White Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Utterly timeless diamond and pearl earrings by renowned jeweler, Mikimoto. Mikimoto is an international luxury company, recognized as the first producer of cultured pearl jewelry. Th...
Diamond, Cultured Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$200Sale Price|20% Off
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Clip on Earrings Sterling Silver 3.53 Grams
By Mikimoto
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Clip On Earrings Sterling Silver 6 mm 3.53 Grams M173 These elegant Authentic Mikimoto Estate Akoya pearl clip-on earrings are made of sterling silver an...
Pearl, Cultured Pearl, Sterling Silver
Mikimoto Earrings. 14k Gold Mikimoto Pearl Dangle Earrings. Unpierced Clip on
By Mikimoto
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stunning Designer earrings. World Renowned MIKIMOTO pearls. Un- Pierce Screw Back Dangle Earrings. Pearls have amazing luster. Dangle Design with double akoya pearls Condition: Shows little to no signs of wear. Details: hallmark M...
Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto Pavé Diamond Pearl Floral Earrings in 18 Karat Yellow Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in San Diego, CA
Mikimoto Diamond & Pearl Floral Earrings Style: Post for Pierced Ears with Clip Metal: 18kt Yellow Gold Size: 22 X 22 MM / 1 inch TCW: 3.37 tcw Main Diamond: 46 Round Diamonds...
Diamond, Pearl, Yellow Gold
$239Sale Price|20% Off
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Earrings Sterling Silver 5.75 mm 4.5 Grams
By Mikimoto
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Earrings Sterling Silver 5.75 mm 4.5 Grams M253 These elegant Authentic Mikimoto Estate Akoya pearl earrings are made of sterling silver and have 8 Akoya Cultured Pearls ranging in size from 4.2 - 5.75 mm with a weight of 4.5 grams. TRUSTED SELLER SINCE 2002 PLEASE SEE OUR HUNDREDS OF POSITIVE FEEDBACKS FROM OUR CLIENTS! FREE SHIPPING DETAILS 8 Fine Quality Japanese Akoya Pearl Closure: Screw Back Measurements: 4.20 - 5.75 mm Weight: 4.5 Grams Metal: Sterling Silver These Authentic Mikimoto Akoya pearl earrings...
Pearl, Sterling Silver
Mikimoto Earrings. Vintage 14k Gold Mikimoto Pearl cluster Clip Ons. Unpierced
By Mikimoto
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stunning Designer earrings. World Renowned MIKIMOTO pearls. A cluster of Akoya pearls designed for unpierced ears. Pearls have amazing luster. Mid-century design. Screw Backs. Con...
Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto 18K Gold Pearl & Diamond Earrings, 2.40ctw, 8.7mm Pearls
By Mikimoto
Located in Miami, FL
Elegant Mikimoto 18K gold pearl and diamond cluster earrings, showcasing two exceptional 8.7mm cultured pearls, encircled by a halo of brilliant-cut diamonds totaling approximately 2...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold
Mikimoto Elongated Pearl Drops Diamond Line Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
These stunning drop earrings are crafted from 18k white gold and feature 4.34 carats of brilliant white diamonds that sparkle beautifully. The lustrous pearls at the base add sophist...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$8,500 / set
Mikimoto Black Pearl and Diamonds Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Darnestown, MD
Stunning Mikimoto black South Sea pearl earrings with a surround of pear shaped diamonds. The pearls measure 10.5 millimeters, There are 32 diamonds with a total weight of .66 cara...
Diamond, Black Pearl, Platinum
Mikimoto Akoya Cultured Pearl Swirl Motif Stud Earrings in 18 Karat White Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
These Mikimoto earrings are crafted in 18 karat white gold and designed with a graceful swirl that highlights clusters of luminous Akoya cultured pearls. Each earring features four p...
Pearl, Cultured Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
MIKIMOTO 18K yellow gold Akoya Pearl double hoop pin earring Pair
By Mikimoto
Located in Hong Kong, NT
MIKIMOTO 18K yellow gold Akoya Pearl double hoop pin earring Pair Reference: KYCG/A00138 Brand: Mikimoto Model: Akoya Pearl Material: Yellow Gold, Pearl Color: Gold, Pearl Pattern: S...
Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Earrings Leaf Textured 14k Yellow Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in New York, NY
Mikimoto's cultured pearl earrings offer timeless sophistication and are a beautiful addition to any jewelry collection. Each pair is carefully made, which includes exquisite Akoya p...
Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$479Sale Price|20% Off
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Earrings 14k Gold 5.7 mm 4.5 Grams
By Mikimoto
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Earrings 14k Gold 5.70 mm 4.5 Grams M252 These elegant Authentic Mikimoto Estate Akoya pearl earrings are made of 14 karats yellow gold and have 4 Akoya ...
Pearl, 14k Gold
$552Sale Price|20% Off
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Earrings 14k Y Gold 6.44 mm
By Mikimoto
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Earrings 14k Y Gold 6.44 mm M393 These elegant Authentic Mikimoto Estate Akoya pearl earrings are made of 14 karat yellow gold and have 4 Akoya Cultured ...
Pearl, Gold
Mikimoto Earrings. 14k Gold Mikimoto Pearl Ruby cluster Clip Ons. Unpierced
By Mikimoto
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stunning Designer earrings. World Renowned MIKIMOTO pearls. A cluster of pearls designed for unpierced ears. Pearls have amazing luster. Natural Round Rubies. Mid-century design wi...
Pearl, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto Pearl & Diamond rose gold Dandelion earrings PEH 5434D Z.
By Mikimoto
Located in Addlestone, GB
Mikimoto Dandelion 18ct Rose Gold Diamond Pearl Earrings, Over a century ago, Kokichi Mikimoto succeeded in creating the world's first cultured pearl. His quest for perfection and ...
Diamond, Pearl, Rose Gold
Mikimoto Diamond Teardrop Emerald Screw Back Yellow Gold Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Southampton, PA
18k Yellow Gold Diamond And Emerald Teardrop Earrings by Mikimoto. With 28 round brilliant cut diamonds VS1 clarity, G color total weight ap...
Diamond, Emerald, Yellow Gold
$552Sale Price|20% Off
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Earrings 14k YG 6 mm 3.4 Grams
By Mikimoto
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mikimoto Estate Akoya Pearl Earrings 14k YG 6 mm 3.4 Grams M363 These elegant Authentic Mikimoto Estate Akoya pearl earrings are made of 14 karat yellow gold and have 2 Akoya Cultur...
Pearl, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto Earrings. 14k Gold Mikimoto Pearl HALO cluster Clip Ons. Unpierced
By Mikimoto
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stunning Designer earrings. World Renowned MIKIMOTO pearls. A cluster of Akoya pearls designed for unpierced ears. Pearls have amazing luster. Mid-century design. Halo Round Cluste...
Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold