Japanese Akoya pearls tend to be of a higher quality than Chinese Akoyas. Quality Japanese pearls can be so lustrous that they radiate a crystal-like effect from their surface. Their nacre tends to be thicker, so they last longer. Japanese akoyas cost more than Chinese Akoyas, but are well worth the investment. The majority of Akoya pearls sold at premiumpearl.com are genuine Japanese Akoya pearls.