The major feature of black Tahitian pearls is their large size. Black Tahitian pearls belong to the group of South Sea pearls and can measure between 9 and 17 mm. A thick and healthy mother-of-pearl layer around the implanted nucleus creates an immaculately natural colour, luster and beauty. These black pearls do not require any artificial improvement, which is why they are admired as the "Queen of pearls".

South Sea pearls are divided into two main categories: bright and dark. A mussel called 'Pinctada maxima' is used to cultivate the bright pearls. According to the shells remarkable size – Pinctada maxima can weigh up to 5 kilograms – a respectively large pearl can grow inside it. Black South Sea Tahitians are cultivated in a mussel called Pinctada margaritifera. Due to the species outstanding qualities, Tahiti’s dark pearl production is considered as the world’s best.

Contrary to freshwater and saltwater pearls, only one nucleus per mussel can be implanted. Many live oysters reject their irritant though. Only a small percentage of harvested South Sea pearls will be perfectly round. Those pearls come in a wide range of colours: bright silver, shading to dark gold, a variety of pink, cream, champagne, yellow, green and blue. Furthermore, pitch-black, iridescent peacock-overtones, darker shades of green, blue, brown, red and yellow may occur. Black Tahitian pearls achieve a top-price level worldwide. For an immaculate necklace you will have to spare a couple of ten thousand dollars. Generally the darker the Tahitian black pearl, the more valuable it is.