Yokota Pearls, Inc.
The Life of a Pearl -- From Oyster to Display Case
1. photo
photo
Insertion of the Nucleus

The oyster is opened, and the nucleus, which will become the core of the pearl, is inserted into the oyster.(top) This process is extremely delicate, and requires both a steady hand and steady nerves.

Afterwards, the oyster is once again lowered into the sea, and the cultivation process(1-4years) begins.(bottom) A pearl is removed from it's oyster at the end of the cultivation period.
2. photo Screening

Even a cultivation period up to four years does not mean that every pearl will be of passable quality. Out of the countless pearls, only a comparative handful will make it to the market.
3. photo Drilling

In this process, a fine hole is drilled through each pearl in preparation for use in a necklace or other accessory. Great care must be taken not to blemish the the beautifully coated surfaces as holes are quickly and efficiently drilled.
4. photo Matching

Though experience is a useful ally in any job, it is especially valuable when it comes to matching pearls. At this stage, pearls are organized by size according to future use. The sorter uses tweezers to sort the pearls with great efficiency and accuracy; sharp senses and dexterity are indispensable.
5. photo The Finished Products

The pearls are made into accessories - some strung into necklaces, others set into rings, and so on - in which form they subsequently arrive at our store, where they await your selection.

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