A Pearl Crafter’s Dilemma: Between Artistic Pursuit and Market Reality
A Long-Awaited Update – And an Unexpected Honor from GIAIt’s been quite a while since my last blog post.Here in Japan, we are in the midst of
Voice Thoughts I can’t always say out loud.
I write when something stays with me—a moment, a pearl, or a passing thought. “Voice” is where I share these reflections,from behind the scenes of pearl-making, and sometimes, just from everyday life.
How a Pearl Gacha Was Born: A True Story of Frustration, Strategy, and Quiet Rebellion
This article is based on the subtitles I added to a recent video documenting the production process of a handmade pendant from my Hold Series.
The Embrace Within: Nature, Motherhood, and the Eighth Pendant in the Hold Series
Hello,This is Flower Jem.Today, I’d like to share the creation process of the eighth pendant in my Hold Series.Until now, the pendants in thi
A Pendant, a Letter, and the Invisible Thread That Connects Us
Halfway Through June, with Rain and ReflectionsIt’s already mid-June of 2025, and with the arrival of the rainy season this week, each day has be
The Hidden Cycle of Akoya Pearl Cultivation: From Eggs to Luster
Pearl cultivation begins long before nucleus insertion. Discover how farmers manage spawning, oyster health, seasonal timing, and years of preparation
Why I Craft My Own Pearl Settings: A Metalwork Journey
Why would a pearl seller begin crafting his own settings? A story of unique pearls, everyday jewelry, and the metalwork journey behind Flower Jem’s or
Why I Created a 30% Coupon: A Weekend with Pearls
Time flies, and we’re already approaching the halfway point of the year.Just like last year, I spend my weekdays doing work unrelated to pearls,
Reflections on the Kobe International Jewelry Exhibition: Akoya Pearls
Today, Saturday, I visited the Kobe International Jewelry Exhibition.I stopped by many booths featuring Akoya pearls and found that the cur
Golden Week at Home: Flowers, BBQ, and Blog Reorganization
Golden Week at Home: Flowers, BBQ, and Blog ReorganizationFrom the end of April to the beginning of May, Japan celebrates its long holiday known
The Shape of Holding: Baroque Pearls and Imperfect Metalwork
In the past few weeks, I’ve been immersed in metal engraving.https://youtu.be/XnCzm5OiO6EBefore that, I was busy making a number of necklac
Is Akoya Pearl a Real Pearl? A Story of History, Identity, and Quiet Beauty
What does “Akoya” really mean? Explore the remarkable history of Japanese Akoya pearls—from ancient records and cultured pearl pioneers to an industry
What Are Baroque Pearls? They’re Oddly Shaped—But Are They Valuable?
I bought my first Akoya blue baroque pearl while working for a pearl company. That experience changed the way I saw pearls and eventually shaped my ap