Freshwater Pearls of Lake Biwa, Japan
Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest and oldest freshwater lake, was once the heart of the country’s pearl industry. In the mid-20th century, local communities cultivated pearls using techniques that shaped modern freshwater pearl production. As industrialization advanced rapidly, environmental strain and pollution disrupted the lake, and many small family-run operations disappeared. The labor behind these pearls was often undervalued and rarely documented.
The pearls we use come from historic Japanese stock. By choosing vintage materials, we avoid contributing to new extraction or mass production, giving new life to pearls while honoring Lake Biwa. These pearls are a reminder to source responsibly, respect labor, and protect ecosystems. Exact farm records no longer exist, so while we reference Lake Biwa as the historical origin, these pearls are sourced from vintage stock rather than a specific producer.
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