Where to Buy Pearls in China: Top Markets and Tips for Buyers

Introduction

China produces 95% of the world’s freshwater pearls, offering entrepreneurs unparalleled access to quality gems at wholesale prices. But with countless markets, suppliers, and e-commerce platforms to navigate, finding the right source can be daunting. How do you avoid overpaying? How do you spot authentic pearls? And where do you start?

This blog answers these questions. I’ll guide you through China’s top pearl markets and quality-checking strategies—all based on my decade of experience in the industry. Whether you’re launching a jewelry brand or scaling your pearl business, you’ll leave with actionable insights to source confidently and avoid costly mistakes.

Why Buy Pearls in China?

Whether you are already in the pearl trade, or want to start one, whether you are a pearl brand, or a small artisan, as long as you want to start a pearl-related business, China must be one of the destinations you cannot bypass. With my experience in this industry, I have witnessed first-hand the unique advantages that China offers, please let me tell you why China should be at the top of your list.

1. Heritage and Innovation

China’s journey with pearls can be traced back to around 1100 BC – 200 AD, when pearls were not only a symbol of the ruling class, but also a precious therapeutic medicine. These early roots laid the foundation for today’s cutting-edge culture technology. Fast forward to modern times, and you will find innovations like Edison Pearls. These beautiful pearls have an impressive size and luster, and are a genius work of China combining tradition with modern science.

2. Market Dominator

Did you know that China currently has 73-80% of the world’s freshwater pearls? That’s right, China is a pearl powerhouse! Especially in places like Zhuji, known as the “Pearl Capital”, China showcases its top-notch freshwater pearls. And it’s not just about freshwater pearls. If you like saltwater pearls, China has them too – like the charming Akoya pearls and South Sea pearls. This means that no matter what your preference for pearls is, China has a wealth of options.

3. Rich variety and comprehensive product range

Whether you are looking at luxurious Edison pearls or classic pearls for daily wear, China can satisfy everyone’s taste and budget. From freshwater pearls to saltwater pearls, from demanding round pearls to Baroque pearls that pursue individuality, you can find pearls of all colors and qualities in markets from Zhuji to Suzhou. This is a pearl paradise where affordability and luxury coexist.

4. Complete industrial chain

The cool thing about China is that it handles all aspects from pearl cultivation to making gorgeous jewelry. You can find your favorite pearls in the market in the morning, find a designer to design jewelry for you at noon, and you can wear it in the afternoon. China’s complete and efficient industrial chain configuration ensures that you can completely turn your ideas into reality in one place without running around.

5. Cost-effective and fast global logistics

The most important thing is: it has the most developed logistics system in the world. Every place provides perfect logistics services. Think about it, you only need to spend a dozen dollars to get your work delivered from China to your doorstep, and all this can be done within a week. And suppliers like Greta Pearls, you can also enjoy benefits such as free shipping on orders over $200. It is this efficiency and pricing that makes buying from China a smart move.

In short, when you choose to buy pearls from China, you are not just buying – you are embracing a piece of art and history, which is supported by the latest pearl cultivation technology and logistics. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just someone who loves the elegance of pearls, China opens up a world of possibilities for you and me.

The Major Pearl Markets in China

Exploring the pearl markets in China can be an exciting journey, offering the chance to discover beautiful pearls at competitive prices. Let me guide you through some of the most prominent markets that I’ve visited, where you can find quality pearls.

Zhuji – “The Pearl Capital” of China

When you step into Zhuji, located in Zhejiang Province, you’ll quickly see why it’s called the “Pearl Capital.” Zhuji’s most famous pearl trading market is the East China International Jewelry City, which covers an area of ​​1.2 million square meters and has more than 2,300 exhibition halls. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly bulk strands to exquisite Edison pearls. Because the market directly connects to local farms, you can expect competitive prices and an extensive variety. However, I recommend brushing up on your knowledge of pearl quality to make the most of what Zhuji offers.

Weitang “China Pearl City”, Suzhou

In Suzhou’s Weitang, you’ll find the birthplace of modern pearl trading in China. Established in 1984, Weitang remains a vibrant hub for high-quality freshwater pearls. If you visit, make sure to explore the adjacent Pearl Lake Park to learn more about pearl cultivation. This area is bustling, and its proximity to Shanghai makes it a great spot for both first-time visitors and seasoned exporters. Among my trips here, I’ve always been impressed by the stunning luster of their pearls.

Beijing Hongqiao Pearl Market (Hongqiao Jewelry Mall)

Have you heard of Beijing’s Hongqiao Market? It’s near the Temple of Heaven, and every time I visit, I’m amazed by the sheer volume of people and pearls. This market is spread over multiple floors, with the pearl section between the 3rd and 5th. Here, you’ll get the chance to engage in some friendly haggling, which is part of the fun. Although competition is fierce, I’ve found some of the best deals on freshwater pearls right here.

Guangzhou Liwan Jewelry & Jade Wholesale Market

If you’re in Guangzhou, don’t miss the Liwan district market. The proximity to Hong Kong makes it a hot spot for international buyers. The market around Hualin Street offers both freshwater and saltwater pearls alongside other gemstones. On my visits, I’ve always been struck by the variety and competitive prices, making it a fantastic resource if you’re looking to source pearls for your business.

These markets form the backbone of China’s pearl industry, each with its distinctive character and offerings. Whether purchasing pearls to wear, for a collection, or sourcing for your business, each of these locations has something unique to offer.You will find that whether they prioritize variety, price, or quality, China’s pearl markets are well-equipped to meet diverse needs.

What to Look for When Buying Pearls

Knowing the key quality factors can have a significant impact when considering buying pearls. For anyone venturing into the pearl market, knowing what to look for is essential to ensuring a wise investment. Here are a few important aspects that influence pearl value:

7 Pearl Value Factors

1. Luster: The Soul of a Pearl

Luster refers to the reflective quality of a pearl’s surface, which is the most important indicator of a pearl’s value. Ideally, a high-quality pearl should reflect light clearly, like a mirror. To check lustre, observe the clarity of the reflection on the pearl’s surface. Stand closer; the clearer your reflection, the better the lustre.

2. Surface Quality: The Skin Tone of the Pearl

Each pearl has unique surface characteristics, but ideally, the surface should be smooth with minimal blemishes. Gently roll the pearl under the light and look for subtle differences. While small specks are normal, avoid pearls with deep scratches, pits or blemishes on the surface.

3. Shape: A Matter of Balance

While round pearls are generally more expensive, the choice often comes down to personal preference and intended jewellery design. But generally speaking, the more natural and smooth the shape, the higher its value.

4. Size: Bigger is not necessarily better

Although in the value judgment of pearls, the larger the size, the higher the price. But in reality, it is not necessary to choose larger pearls. This needs to be more in line with your design style. Large-sized pearls can highlight dignity and luxury, but small pearls can create a small and exquisite feeling.

5. Color: Not just light colors

Color is also one of the factors that determine the value of pearls. The most common pearl colors are white, pink, gold and black. But please avoid buying dyed pearls. Natural pearls should have a uniform and natural tone, and the color inside and outside is uniform. If the surface color of the pearl is different in depth, please pay attention.

6. Pearl variety: freshwater and saltwater

The variety of pearls is a key factor in determining the price. Generally speaking, the price of saltwater pearls is much higher than that of freshwater pearls. Among freshwater pearls, Edison pearls have the highest price. There is no strict quality difference between them, but it depends on rarity.

7. Matching: Harmony in groups

If your jewelry design involves multiple pearls, then matching will be a factor you need to consider. For example, for earrings, you need to make the pearls on both sides the same size, shape and color as much as possible. For necklaces, you may need to ensure that the pearls are as consistent or evenly transitioned as possible.

How to choose pearls that are suitable for you

Although jewelry appraisal institutions such as GIA have specified strict grading standards for pearls. But I think that as a natural jewelry, it is not suitable to be constrained by strict standards, especially in the current era when people are increasingly pursuing personalization, some imperfections can highlight the uniqueness of jewelry. So here are some of my personal suggestions:

• 1. Determine your theme. Pearls have a very wide range of shapes, colors, sizes and qualities. Before buying, you should first determine your budget and the crowd your jewelry will face. This can save you a lot of energy and time.
• 2. Embrace imperfections and make your jewelry stand out through design. Although pearls with defects are cheaper, this does not affect their value creation for you at all. Through inlaying, punching, wrapping and other methods, these defects can be eliminated while making your design more unique.
• 3.  Pay more attention to things you cannot change. When choosing pearls, focus on the things you cannot change later, such as pearl luster, shape and size. Because you cannot modify these through design later, especially the luster of pearls, which directly determines the price of your jewelry in their hearts.

Conclusion

Buying pearls in China presents a wealth of opportunities, from the bustling markets in Zhuji and Weitang known for their vast selections, to the diverse offerings in Beijing’s Hongqiao Market. These destinations showcase the best of China’s pearl industry, offering high-quality, authentic pearls at competitive prices. Understanding these markets and knowing what to look for ensures you not only get great value but also the unique cultural experience that comes with it.

For those who prefer a more convenient approach, Greta Pearls provides an excellent alternative. As an online platform dedicated to offering the finest freshwater pearls from China, with no minimum order requirements, our platform is perfect for businesses of all sizes. Greta Pearls stands ready to support your venture with top-notch products and unparalleled service. Start your journey with us and discover the captivating world of Chinese pearls, delivered right to your doorstep.