South Sea pearls are produced across the tropical Indo-Pacific, in regions where Pinctada maxima naturally occurs and where marine conditions can support the long cultivation cycle required for large, thick-nacred pearls.

The major producing regions are Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar. Each region is associated with different shell populations, farming conditions, pearl colors, and market identities.

One of Jewelmer's pearl farms in the Philippines

Australia is most closely associated with fine white and silver South Sea pearls. The Philippines is best known for golden South Sea pearls. Indonesia produces both white and golden South Sea pearls and is one of the largest producers by volume. Myanmar has historically produced fine white South Sea pearls, though modern trade is complicated by political restrictions and sanctions.

These regional differences are important because South Sea pearl quality and perceived value are strongly tied to provenance. Water quality, shell type, farming method, grow-out period, and local environment all influence the character of the pearls produced.