The Grand Return of Auctions to Polynesia

As part of the sectoral reform launched in 2009, the Polynesian government fulfilled its strategic objective in 2010 by repatriating pearl auctions to its own territory. This ambition materialized with the organization of two major events on October 5 and 6, 2010, in Bora Bora, the historical cradle of Polynesian pearl farming.

October 5: Sale of 26 lots of high-end pearls (Top Gem, A, and B)
➝ 30,100 pearls (average weight: 1.69 g/piece)
➝ 23 lots sold (88.5% success rate)
➝ Average price: 2,863 F CFP/piece (+23.1% over reserve)

October 6: Sale of 58 lots of standard pearls (C and D)
➝ 195,009 pearls (average weight: 1.71 g/piece)
➝ 30 lots sold (51.7% success rate)
➝ Average price: 1,316 F CFP/piece (+8.89% over reserve)

Bora Bora, a Natural Showcase for a Pearling Tradition

These auctions took place in a deeply symbolic setting:

✔ Historic location: Held on the site of the very first pearl farm
✔ Cultural heritage: Honoring the legendary “Bora Bora Pearls”
✔ Tourism asset: A perfect blend of luxury and tradition

"This return to our roots gives a new dimension to our pearls, firmly anchored in their land and history," emphasized a sector representative.

Contest of the Most Beautiful Pearls: Excellence in the Spotlight

At the same time, the newly created Tahiti Pearl House — the government’s promotion body — organized an exceptional contest:

🔹 4 award-winning pearls selected by international experts
🔹 Criteria of excellence: size, surface quality, color, and luster
🔹 Public participation: Voting open until November 3, 2010

The winning pearl will embark on a world tour in 2011, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Tahitian Pearl across five continents.

A Promising Sectoral Dynamic

These events mark a decisive turning point:

✅ Local valorization: Strengthened territorial anchoring
✅ Economic performance: Significant rise in average prices
✅ International recognition: Contest as a showcase of excellence

"These results prove that our pearl has regained its rightful place in the global luxury market," declared a negotiator present at the auctions.

Through these initiatives, French Polynesia reaffirms its position as a leader in cultured pearls, combining ancestral know-how with innovative commercial strategies.