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.
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...
Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
Mikimoto Elements of Life Denim Blue Ombré Sapphire Pearl Drop Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
From Mikimoto's celebrated Elements of Life collection, these Ocean drop earrings capture the serene depth of the sea in a single, elegant gesture. A slender bar of 18 karat white go...
Pearl, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Mikimoto, 18 Karat White Gold, Cultured South Sea Pearl and Dianond Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Chicago, IL
These classic Mikimoto earrings feature a signature drop design. The earrings are set with two luminous 11.00 and 12.00 mm cultured South Sea pearl drops and round brilliant cut diam...
Diamond, Cultured 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 14k Yellow Gold Pearl Cluster Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in New York, NY
These Mikimoto cluster earrings are crafted in 14k yellow gold and feature lustrous 3.75mm pearls arranged in a classic cluster design. The warm yellow gold complements the soft irid...
Pearl, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto Diamond Pearl Earrings 18K Yellow Gold Cultured Pearls
By Mikimoto
Located in Fairfield, CT
Mikimoto Diamond Pearl Earrings 18K Yellow Gold Cultured Pearls These earrings by Mikimoto feature cultured pearls centered within an intricate diamond-set design made in 18k yellow...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
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 7.1 mm Akoya Pearl Post Earrings 18k White Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in Kobe, Hyogo
*** Special offer to US buyer for this product only *** This earrings are from Japan. I will pay all customs fees when your shipping address is in the US. Item: Authentic Mikimoto A...
Pearl, 18k Gold, White 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 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
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 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 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 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
$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, White Gold and Cultured Pearl Necklace and Earring Set
By Mikimoto
Located in Chicago, IL
A classic pearl necklace and matching stud earrings by the renowned Mikimoto. The pearls slightly graduate and are strung knotted, they measure approximately 6.80-6.50 mm in diameter...
Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold, White 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
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 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 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
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
$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 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 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 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 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
$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
$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
$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
Genuine Turquoise Blue Sapphire Gold Blue Sapphire Diamonds Flat Drop Earrings
By Tutti Frutti Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
Tops are 2 oval Blue Sapphire cabochons, middle parts have 2 diamonds 0.05 each round full cut , 2 blue sapphire square cut ,white gold and the bottom parts have 2 genuine Turquoise...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Turquoise, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Classic South Sea Pearl Stud Earring in 18k Yellow Gold
Located in Melbourne, AU
A pair of Australian south sea pearls measuring 9-10mm. The Pearls are round in shape with very minor surface blemishes and imperfection. The pearls are of high lustre with green and...
Pearl, South Sea Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sapphire Amethyst South Sea Pearl Drop Earrings 5 Carats 18 Karat White Gold
By Harbor Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
18 Karat White Gold dome drop earrings featuring number Sapphires, 2.20 Carats, Amethyst & Rhodolite weighing 2.80 Carats and two white South Sea Pearls measuring 12-13 MM. Customiz...
Amethyst, South Sea Pearl, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
$2,950 / item
W 0.25 in L 1.25 in
18 Karat White Gold Diamond Ribbon South Sea Pearl Earrings .057 Carats
By Harbor Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
18 Karat White Gold drop earrings featuring a diamond ribbon motif containing 52 diamonds weighing 0.57 carats and two South Sea Pearls measuring 12-13 MM. Color G-H Clarity SI Custo...
Diamond, South Sea Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
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
14K Yellow Gold Pearl Stud Earrings #18281
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Pearl Studs - These timeless beauties add a touch of classiness to any outfit. Size: 4.5mm X 13 mm Weight: 0.3 dwt/ 0.5g Hallmark: K14 14K China Very good co...
Pearl, 14k Gold
$29,200
W 0.75 in L 2 in
Blue Sapphire South Sea Pearl and Diamond Drop Earrings Design by Ella Gafter
By Ella Gafter
Located in New York, NY
The blue sapphire and South Sea pearl earrings feature a spray of 13.50 carats of oval cut and pear shape faceted blue Ceylon sapphires of brilliant color. The tops suspend- via an o...
White Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Blue Sapphire, Diamond, Pearl, Sapphire,...
$3,500 / set
Dm 0.32 in L 1.11 in
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
Modern South Sea Pearls Natural Diamond 18K White Gold Statement Earrings
By SCALA GIOIELLI
Located in Marcianise, IT
An absolute masterpiece of modern high jewelry, this magnificent pair of statement chandelier drop earrings is meticulously crafted in solid 18-karat white gold. Weighing a substant...
Diamond, Pearl, South Sea Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
$440Sale Price|20% Off
Vintage Pearl and Diamond Earrings in 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vintage Pearl and Diamond Earrings in 14K Yellow Gold Specifications: Metal: 14K Main Stone: 2 Diamonds.01 GH SI Side stones: 8-5mm Pearls
Diamond, Pearl, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto 18k White Gold Natural South Sea Cultured Pearl and Diamond Earring
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Mikimoto 18k White Gold Natural South Sea Cultured Pearl and Diamond Earring Material: 18k White Gold Diamond Details: Each Earring Features a Natural White South Sea Cultured Pearl...
Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
$5,510Sale Price / item|20% Off
L 1.25 in
Sapphire and Blue Topaz South Sea Pearl Dangle Drop Earrings
By Harbor Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
18K White Gold Sapphire and Blue Topaz 9.00 Carats Diamonds 1.60 Cts South Sea Pearls 15-16 mm
Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Blue Sapphire, Topaz, 18k 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
Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Stud Earrings 18k Yellow Gold 7.5 to 8mm A+ Box Certificate
By Mikimoto
Located in Northbrook, IL
Elevate your jewelry collection with these exquisite Mikimoto stud earrings. Crafted from 18k yellow gold, they feature lustrous pearls that radiate elegance. The smooth, round desig...
Pearl, 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 7.2 mm Akoya Pearl Post Earrings 18k Yellow Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in Kobe, Hyogo
Item: Authentic Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Post Earrings Stones: 7.2 mm, 7.3 mm Akoya Pearl Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Weight: 4.3 Grams (total) Condition: Used ( in very good condition ) Ret...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
MIKIMOTO 18K White Gold Akoya Pearl Stud Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in New York, NY
An elegant pair of authentic Mikimoto pearl stud earrings, crafted in 18 karat white gold and set with luminous Japanese Akoya pearls measuring approximately 6mm to 6.5mm in diameter...
Pearl, 18k Gold, White 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 Pearl Diamond Drop Dangle Earrings 18k White Gold 4.9g
By Mikimoto
Located in Northbrook, IL
These are the Classic Elegance Black South Sea Cultured Pearl Sea Lever Back earrings, currently retail for $5800. Enhance your elegance with these stunning dangle earrings by Mikim...
Diamond
Mikimoto 5.4 mm Akoya Pearl & Diamond Post Earrings 18k White Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in Kobe, Hyogo
Item: Authentic Mikimoto Akoya Pearl and Diamond Post Earrings Stones: 5.4 mm Akoya Pearl × 2, 0.02ct Diamond × 2 Metal: 18K White Gold Weight: 1.6 Grams (total) Measurement: 7.6 mm...
Pearl, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Mikimoto 18K Cultured Pearl Stud Earrings With Diamond & Pearl Removable Jackets
By Mikimoto
Located in Baltimore, MD
Mikimoto 18K Cultured Pearl Stud Earrings With Diamond & Pearl Removable Jackets Metal: 18k yellow gold Weight: 4.18 grams Pearls: 8mm round cultured pearls with creamy luster Diamon...
Diamond, Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow 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 Moon Earrings. 18k Yellow Gold Mikimoto Pearl Dainty Stud Earrings.
By Mikimoto
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stunning Designer earrings. World Renowned MIKIMOTO pearls. Pierced stud earrings. Single Pearl studs with a Crescent Moon 18k Yellow gold. Condition: Shows little to no signs of ...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mikimoto 6.0 mm Akoya Pearl Post Earrings 18k White Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in Kobe, Hyogo
Item: Authentic Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Post Earrings Stones: 6 mm, 6 mm Akoya Pearl Metal: 18K White Gold Weight: 1.6 Grams (total) Condition: Used Retail Price: --- Signatures: MIKIMO...
Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold