Gemological Institute of America Visit

The black pearls of Tahiti, blue pearls of New Zealand and white pearls of Australia were on the itinerary for a group of Gemological Institute of America members when they set off from Los Angeles in late August on their world trip.

Since late last year Eyris Blue Pearls have been planning and looking forward to hosting 27 members of this prestigious international group. We were fortunate to be able to offer our hospitality and share our knowledge of the blue pearls to gemologists / jewellers from Austria, Switzerland, Lithuania, Malta and the United States of America. Their time with us included a visit to Akaroa and a trip to the marine farm, the Akaroa Blue Pearl Centre, our Blue Pearl Processing Centre and Christchurch’s Blue Pearl Gallery.

Even though their travel plans were disrupted due to aircraft mechanical problems in Tahiti and weather disruptions in New Zealand the group were in great spirits and fascinated by the many steps needed and processes involved to create New Zealand’s gem – the blue pearl. They have all taken away with them a huge respect for our humble Haliotis iris (paua) and its beautiful shell.