Mikimoto

Mikimoto, the globally renowned purveyor of cultured pearls, holds a storied legacy that dates back to its founding in 1893 by Kokichi Mikimoto in Japan. Known for pioneering the art of pearl cultivation, Kokichi Mikimoto succeeded in producing the world's first cultured pearl on July 11, 1893. This groundbreaking achievement forever transformed the pearl industry and earned Mikimoto the moniker, "The Pearl King."

Born in 1858 in Toba, Mie Prefecture, Kokichi Mikimoto was the son of a noodle-shop owner. His fascination with pearls led him to experiment with pearl cultivation by studying the methods of British biologist William Saville-Kent, eventually developing his own techniques. With the assistance of his wife Ume, Mikimoto refined the method of inserting an irritant into Akoya oysters to stimulate pearl production, thus creating lustrous cultured pearls nearly indistinguishable from their natural counterparts.

By 1899, the company opened its first pearl boutique in Tokyo's Ginza district, followed by significant international expansion. In 1913, Mikimoto opened a store in London, soon followed by establishments in New York, Paris, and other major cities, introducing the world to the exquisite beauty of cultured pearls.

Kokichi Mikimoto's relentless dedication to quality led to numerous accolades. He exhibited his pearls at several World Expos and international fairs, showcasing these marvels and earning acclaim. Notably, Mikimoto's pearls were displayed at the 1926 Philadelphia World’s Fair and the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, further cementing the brand’s global reputation.

Mikimoto's innovation extended beyond pearl cultivation into exquisite jewelry design, establishing a tradition of exceptional craftsmanship. The brand collaborated with renowned designers and has been commissioned to create pieces for royalty and celebrities, including the illustrious Imperial Pearls for the Japanese Imperial family.