Why South Sea Pearls Are So Expensive | So Expensive | Business Insider

South Sea pearls are the largest cultured-pearl variety, sometimes reaching over 20 millimeters in diameter. The Pinctada maxima oyster can take up to five years to produce a single South Sea pearl, whereas more common freshwater oysters can take as little as three months and create dozens of pearls. This long cultivation process makes South Sea pearls rarer — and more expensive. A single South Sea pearl can cost $1,500, and a necklace can reach over $200,000. So, how are these pearls grown? And what makes them so expensive? MORE SO EXPENSIVE VIDEOS: Why 4 Of The World’s Priciest Scents Are So Expensive | So Expensive | Business Insider Why The World’s Priciest Accordions Are So Expensive | So Expensive | Business Insider Why East African Shea Butter Is So Expensive | So Expensive | Business Insider ------------------------------------------------------ #Pearls #SouthSeaPearl #Businessinsider Business Insider tells you all you need to know about business, finance, tech, retail, and more. Visit us at: Subscribe: BI on Facebook: BI on Instagram: BI on Twitter: BI on Snapchat: Boot Camp on Snapchat: Why South Sea Pearls Are So Expensive | So Expensive | Business Insider