Black Pearl Necklace from Tahiti | Featured in Vogue

To put it bluntly, I felt like a walking ATM while visiting Tahiti. I just got back from our “once in a lifetime” trip to Tahiti and I chose to get it online because buying black pearls in Tahiti turned out to be way too expensive. It seemed to me that, as a tourist, the objective was to get as much money from me as possible.

The level of tourist exploitation is absolutely next level. Turns out I’m not the only one that thinks so. Several people said they felt the same way. We did island hopping in French Polynesia and of course it is fun to actually buy while in paradise with the turquoise water and volcanoes but the whole thing smacks of every touristy trap I’ve ever seen.

Not trying to rip anyone off of course, but I don’t want overpriced crap either. The same thing is less money online than in person. The whole Tahitian pearl enterprise reminded me of diamond buying. Diamonds of course are a semi precious stone with good marketing. Surprisingly, the best shop I found was on Bora Bora.

I’m not trying to be unkind. I’m trying to be honest to set folks up for success if they’re planning on visiting Tahiti. I’d rather shop online for larger, more affordable black pearls and save money.

I actually consider the idea of taking a piece of sediment that an oyster has produced with its own secretions out of its mouth and wearing it as jewelry to be gross. However, I wanted a black pearl necklace I could wear most days that go with outfits and make them look new. I did swap out the chain for something more my style, but the pearl itself is really pretty and has a strong presence without feeling over the top. I’ve worn it a few times now and have gotten multiple compliments, which I didn’t necessarily expect.

Honiye my love happy anniversary. I do love you from earth to moon. I really do.

Beautiful, stunning to look at.

My girlfriend loved it!

Birthday present for my wife- she loved it!