Robert Wan Pearl Museum, Pearl museum in Papeete, French Polynesia.
The Robert Wan Pearl Museum houses a collection of pearls at different stages of growth and farming. The displays explain how pearls form inside oysters, show the tools and methods used in cultivation, and present the range of colors and sizes that occur naturally.
Robert Wan created this museum to document the story of pearl farming in French Polynesia, which grew into a major industry during the 20th century. The institution preserves how this craft transformed the region's economy and became central to its development.
The collection shows how pearls have held a deep place in Tahitian ceremonies and crafts for countless generations. Walking through the exhibits, you notice how central these gems remain to local traditions and artistry today.
The museum sits in central Papeete and is open daily, with most visits lasting around two hours. Wear comfortable shoes and allow time to closely examine the different pearl shapes, colors, and formations on display.
The museum holds the world's largest Tahitian pearl, a genuinely rare specimen that stands out among all the pieces on display. This single gem represents an extraordinary find that few visitors forget.
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