The Australian South Sea pearl oyster (Pinctada maxima) stands as the largest and most elusive among pearl oysters, yielding the most sizable and precious pearls. Over five decades, Paspaley has unraveled the secrets behind crafting unparalleled pearls. As custodians of one of the world’s most significant pearling ventures, Paspaley harmonise with nature, employing a blend of scientific expertise and meticulous marine conservation to cultivate the world’s rarest and most beautiful pearls. Their aquaculture practices prioritise nurturing oysters in their native habitat.
The Paspaley Pearl Farm Tour is a Journey Beyond experience from Australia’s leading experiential tourism group. Our aim is to take guests beyond, to ignite their imagination and to transform the amazing into the breathtaking. Together with Paspaley, we are delighted to be able to offer another incredible offering within the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
THE PEARL CULTIVATION PROCESS
Diving
Skilled divers harvest wild Pinctada maxima oysters from Australia's Kimberley coast, ensuring sustainability by limiting harvests.
Seeding
Technicians delicately implant polished spheres of Mississippi clamshell into each oyster aboard the MV Paspaley 4, stimulating pearl formation. The oysters are then returned to the ocean for 2-3 years.
Husbandry
Over the next 2-3 years, pearlers nurture the oysters, allowing them to absorb nutrients from the pristine waters, shaping each pearl uniquely.
Harvest
After the nurturing period, oysters are raised from the ocean, and technicians delicately open the shells to reveal the pearls. High-quality pearls are seeded again for future harvests.
Grading
Expert pearl graders meticulously assess each pearl based on Lustre, complexion, shape, color, and size, determining their value. Only the most beautiful pearls are selected for Paspaley designs.
By the 1950s, a steep decline in demand for mother-of-pearl shell brought about near devastation to the pearling industry. Amidst the challenges of hardhat diving, frequent cyclones, and other adversities, Paspaley embarked on a transformative journey that would redefine pearling forever.
For over 80 years, their divers have combed the seabeds off Australia’s northwest in pursuit of the elusive Pinctada maxima oyster. It was within this rugged landscape that innovation and profound change took root – ushering in a new era where pearl cultivation became the cornerstone of Australia's pearling industry, inspired by successful practices in Japan.
Today, Paspaley stands as the paramount producer of cultured pearls worldwide. While their gems maintain their status within the South Sea pearl category, Paspaley pearls have carved out a distinct niche due to their unparalleled and universally acknowledged quality. Consequently, these jewels are commonly known simply as Paspaley Pearls.
FAQS
Is this tour suitable for wheelchairs?
Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility due to moving between vessels.
What are Paspaley Pearls?
Paspaley Pearls are also known as Australian South Sea pearl oyster (Pinctada maxima) is the largest and rarest of all pearl oysters and produces the largest and most valuable of all pearls.
What do I need to bring?
You will need to bring a hat, sunscreen, water bottle and a camera.
Does the tour include meals?
None of our tours include meals however Pearl Meat canapes will be available to try upon arrival to the Paspaley Boutique in Broome.
How long is the tour?
Both the morning and afternoon tours will run for approximately 4 hours each.
Do you offer transfers to and from accommodation?
Yes! We offer transfers to and from all major Broome hotels.
Will there be swimming?
Swimming will not be permitted whilst on this tour.
Do tours run all year round?
Our tours run during the dry season only between June and October.