Exotic, eye-catching and very large compared to other pearls, Multi-colored Tahitian pearls from the black-lipped pinctada maxima oyster are prized for their rare, natural black body color. Naturally, that rarity also translates into 5-figure prices, a sacrifice few want to make for mere adornment. So Stauer once again tasked our bioscientists to replicate the look, feel, weight and luster of those priceless ocean baubles. They started with the "seed" of a pearl from a fresh oyster shell. Then they enhanced the seed with organic microcoatings based on the nacre of the oyster, creating a better, rounder and larger lab-coated sphere. Our 18" Multi- colored Voyageur strand combines luminous hues of Tahitian "black," mossy greens, slate blues, dove grays, champagne golds and creamy whites, each and every one an impressive 12mm beauty. Individually hand-knotted, the necklace secures with a heirloom-style fishhook clasp of tarnish-resistant .925 sterling silver.