Your Pearl Necklace Begins Here: Why We Source from Palawan
There is something eternal about pearls, the way they shimmer softly with the light, never demanding attention, only deserving it. Formed over time in the secret stillness of water, each pearl carries a quiet story of patience, transformation, and natural beauty. At Antonina Poppy, these stories begin in Palawan, the heart of our freshwater pearl journey.
As our brand evolves, so does our dedication to provenance and purpose. We are deepening our commitment to ethical sourcing and artisan heritage, building close relationships with communities that hold generations of craft in their hands. Our freshwater pearl necklaces are not only statements of elegance; they are symbols of respect for culture, for nature, and craftsmanship.
The Philippines has long held a revered place in the world of pearls. Its waters produce some of the most exquisite specimens on Earth, including the rare and iridescent varieties of freshwater pearls. But within this archipelago, one region shines brightest: Palawan. Cradled between the Sulu and South China Seas, Palawan is a sanctuary of biodiversity and clarity — a place where nature thrives unspoiled. These pristine waters are ideal for nurturing pearls of uncommon quality, and the region’s quiet commitment to tradition sets it apart.
Pearl farming in Palawan is a study in care, time, and reverence. Farmers tend their oysters over months and years, allowing nature to lead while offering steady hands and knowledge passed down across generations. The process is delicate: from the selection of molluscs to the precise control of environmental conditions, every step is measured and meaningful.
Many of the communities involved in pearl farming in Palawan rely on intergenerational wisdom, skills and rituals inherited from mothers and grandfathers, refined and honoured with every harvest. We are proud to work directly with these local partners, not only to ensure the quality of our materials but to help protect and sustain their cultural heritage.
In the world of Antonina Poppy, pearls are not accessories, they are essentials. Whether strung into cascading necklaces or delicately suspended in a single-drop design, each freshwater pearl we use is chosen for its unique lustre, tone, and shape. The gentle irregularities of Palawan pearls give them a soul - a soft, organic elegance that mass-produced perfection cannot imitate.
Their luminous finish pairs effortlessly with our aesthetic: romantic, refined, and quietly bold. To wear one is to carry a piece of the sea, shaped by time and touched by human care.
Explore the Collection
Let your next heirloom begin where nature, craftsmanship, and intention meet.
Discover our freshwater pearl collection — sourced from Palawan, made for you.
Cover credit: Olafur Eliasson