Häufig gestellte Fragen
Find the answers to our frequently asked questions here.
Our Jewellery
Why are Australian South Sea Pearls considered the best pearls in the world?
The Australian South Sea Pearl is the most revered and highly prized pearl in the world. Willie Creek Pearl Farm utilises the largest pearl producing oyster in the world, the Pinctada maxima.
Grown in the pristine coastal waters of Broome in Northwestern Australia, we produce some of the largest and best pearls in the world. Utilising modern pearling techniques and practices, our pearls are coated in a thick layer of nacre, producing a stunning natural lustre unrivalled by any other type of pearl.
How are pearls attached to the bale/mount when the jewellery is made?
With every piece of fine pearl jewellery, there is a pin on the setting. This pin is inserted into the predrilled pearl, and a specific type of adhesive is used to glue the pearl to the setting. The size and thickness that Willie Creek Pearls specify for this pin is above and beyond industry standards.
Are chains included in the price of a pearl pendant?
If a chain isn’t purchased, pendants will come with a gold-plated or rhodium plated stainless steel display chain for presentation, however it is not recommended for wear. Chains are sold separately, hier klicken um Ketten zu sehen.
We stock 9K and 18K white, rose, and yellow gold chains, along with sterling silver chains. We also stock neoprene necklaces in a variety of metals, thickness and length. All chains and neoprene's can be purchased separately.
How can I distinguish the grade of a pearl?
Pearls are graded against five universal virtues: lustre, complexion, shape, colour and size. Learn more about the Five Virtues of a Pearl here. Other methods for distinguishing the grade of a pearl can differ greatly. Even in Broome, pearl farmers have different systems for grading their pearls!
An AAA grade pearl at one pearl retailer may have the same characteristics as another pearl retailer but be referred to as an A grade pearl.
What colour and shape pearls are the most expensive?
Pearls are valued based upon their representation of the five pearl virtues: lustre, size, shape, colour and complexion, and how each of these elements combine. Complexion and lustre are often considered two of the most important characteristics, with size, shape and colour a matter of personal choice and individual style. Learn more about the Five Virtues of a Pearl here.
Why are freshwater pearls cheaper than saltwater pearls
Freshwater pearls tend to be cheaper than saltwater pearls as they are less expensive and less difficult to cultivate. Freshwater mussels can produce in excess of 30 pearls at a time, in as little as six months. The saltwater oyster typically produces only one pearl and it takes two years to grow.
How are baroque and round pearls formed?
Round pearls are formed when the oyster secretes an even coating of nacre on the inserted nucleus. A baroque pearl is formed when these layers are non-uniform.
What type of diamonds do you use and where do you source them from?
Outside of jewellery that is specified as having diamonds from the Argyle Diamond Mine, our ‘white’ diamonds are sourced primarily from reputable Australian diamond suppliers, who source diamonds that have been ethically produced. Unless specifically specified otherwise, the diamonds are of G/H colour and SI clarity.
What is the difference between 9 carat gold and 18 carat gold?
Pure gold is soft and is often mixed with other metals to make it harder and stronger. The colour of gold can differ not only between 9 and 18 carat gold, but also within the same carat. 18ct gold is 75% pure gold and 25% other metals (usually a combination of silver and copper). In the case of white gold, that 25% consists of white metals (eg. nickel, zinc, palladium) to give it a silvery hue. 9ct gold on the other hand is is 37.5% pure gold and 62.5% other metals.
All the white gold jewellery at Willie Creek Pearls has been given a coating of rhodium plating to enhance its white colour and shine. We recommend matching the gold used in your jewellery bale to your chain.
Pflege von Perlen
Can I wear my pearls all of the time or should I limit wear to preserve their quality?
Pearls require moisture to maintain their appearance, and therefore it is great to wear them against your skin. Wear them as often as you like; however, remember to take them off if involved in activity that could scratch, knock or damage the pearl or parts of the setting. Avoid direct contact with perfumes, lotions and hairsprays by ensuring your pearls are the last accessories you put on when getting ready and the first removed. Gently wipe your pearl with a soft cloth and store separately when not worn.
Can I wear my pearls to the beach?
You can wear your pearls to the beach however it is important to remember that sand (which contains silica) can be extremely abrasive. As is the case with all jewellery, it is not advisable to wear your pearls in the ocean. Even though pearls come from the sea, salt and chlorinated water can, over time, reduce the lustre of your pearls.
Willie Creek Farm Tour
Wie komme ich zur Willie Creek Pearl Farm?
There are three travel options to and from Willie Creek Pearl Farm. You can catch our airconditioned coaches which feature informative commentary from our drivers during your journey, you can drive yourself in your own 4WD, or you can travel in style in a chartered helicopter via our partners KAS Helicopters. Browse our options hier.
Aufgrund unserer großartigen Gezeitenbewegungen fahren wir abwechselnd auf einer mit roten Markierungen gekennzeichneten Strecke und einer mit blauen Markierungen gekennzeichneten Alternativroute. Wenn Sie selbst mit dem Auto unterwegs sind, achten Sie bitte auf unsere Beschilderung an der Manari Road, die Ihnen den richtigen Weg weist. Folgen Sie dann einfach den farbigen Markierungen und erfreuen Sie sich an den atemberaubenden Kunstwerken unserer ansässigen Künstlerin Donna Fortescue, die Ihnen auf dem Weg zur und von der Farm den Weg weisen.
The Willie Creek Pearl Farm is 38km outside Broome, please allow up to an hour for the drive. You can download a copy of our map hier.
Was ist der Unterschied zwischen dem roten und dem blauen Gleis, und woher weiß ich, welches Gleis ich nehmen muss?
Both tracks lead to the same place, via alternate routes. We can switch from the red track to the blue track at any time due to the effect of any number of environmental conditions such as tide, rain or bush fire. Signage on the way to Willie Creek will indicate which path to take, as well as highlight any road closures. The roads on the way to Willie Creek Pearl Farm are maintained and managed by the Shire of Broome and the condition of them is out of our control.
Wo holt der Reisebus ab?
Our coaches collect guests from various locations in Broome, but we don’t collect from private addresses and Airbnb's. Our pickup locations are listed when making a booking online or by advising our bookings staff of your location so we can confirm your pickup time.
Was sollte ich für einen Tag auf der Willie Creek Pearl Farm mitbringen?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing. Closed-in shoes are not mandatory; however, some guests find it more comfortable when climbing the steps to board our boat. You may wish to bring a hat, although the tour does not include much time spent in the direct sun. We provide sunscreen, water and bug spray at Willie Creek Pearl Farm for your convenience.
Was für ein Fahrzeug benötige ich für die Anreise zur Willie Creek Pearl Farm und wie erfahre ich, wie die Straßenverhältnisse sind?
Wir empfehlen, immer mit einem 4WD zu fahren. Die Fahrt zur Willie Creek Pearl Farm ist ein authentischer Teil des Erlebnisses! Die Straßen sind nicht geteert, geriffelt und teilweise sandig, ermöglichen Ihnen aber auch, einige der erstaunlichen einheimischen Flora und Fauna der Region zu sehen. Der Zustand der öffentlichen Straßen variiert zu verschiedenen Jahreszeiten und entzieht sich unserer Kontrolle. Sie werden vom Shire of Broome instand gehalten und verwaltet, wozu auch gehört, dass sie bei bestimmten Wetter- oder Umweltereignissen geöffnet und geschlossen werden.
Follow the signage and advice on which track to take on the way to Willie Creek Pearl Farm.
Kann ich die Willie Creek Pearl Farm in mein GPS eingeben, um eine genaue Wegbeschreibung zu erhalten?
Most GPS systems are not aware of the changing track conditions that can result from a change to our operations for the day. Please DO NOT use your GPS but DO follow our instructions and the signage on the way to Willie Creek Pearl Farm.
Is Willie Creek Pearl Farm disability friendly?
The grounds at Willie Creek Pearl Farm are wheelchair-accessible, with ramps fitted and an ambulatory restroom available. Wheelchair access onto the boat component of the tour is restricted and as such, a land-based tour commentary is offered in its place. Our tours are created with accessibility in mind, with the use of microphones, visual components, and tactile props to assist in increased access for all. Please contact us to discuss your individual requirements and how we can meet your needs during your visit to Willie Creek Pearl Farm.
Kann ich meinen Hund/ meine Hunde zur Willie Creek Pearl Farm mitbringen?
Hunde sind auf der Willie Creek Pearl Farm auf unseren Touren und auf der Terrasse nicht erlaubt. Bitte nehmen Sie Rücksicht auf die im Willie Creek lebenden Krokodile und andere einheimische Tiere, einschließlich Reptilien, und seien Sie vorsichtig. Wenn Sie einen Blindenhund haben, rufen Sie bitte vor Ihrer Tour an.
Wie lange dauert die Besichtigung der Willie Creek Pearl Farm?
Für Gäste, die unseren Reisebus nehmen, beträgt die Gesamtzeit der Tour von der Abholung bis zur Rückgabe in Broome etwa 5 Stunden. Für Gäste, die selbst fahren, dauert die Tour ca. 3 Stunden, ohne die Fahrtzeit zur und von der Willie Creek Pearl Farm. Wir empfehlen Ihnen, eine Stunde für jede Strecke einzuplanen, wenn Sie mit dem Auto unterwegs sind.
Wenn ich einen Bustransfer buche, kann ich dann auf der Willie Creek Pearl Farm zum Mittagessen bleiben?
Unfortunately, a standard coach transfer does not allow time to stay for lunch, however you will be provided with complimentary refreshments. Please book a designated Mittagstour wenn Sie zum Mittagessen bleiben möchten.
Kann ich ein Mittagessen mit jemandem teilen, wenn ich eine Tour mit Mittagessen buche?
Sie können Ihr Mittagessen gerne mit anderen teilen, aber bedenken Sie bitte, dass alle Mittagessen, einschließlich der Lunchpakete, für eine Person ausgelegt sind.
Is food included in the tour?
Yes, all Willie Creek Pearl Farm tours include refreshments, featuring our famous damper recipe. We also offer tours with lunch included, where you can choose a platter featuring options from the Earth, Land and Sea.
Findet die Tour auf einem Boot statt?
One component of the Willie Creek Pearl Farm tour is conducted on board a tour boat. Guests will cruise the tranquil waters of Willie Creek to where oysters are suspended in their pristine environment. Guests will also have an opportunity to sight an array of native wildlife. Learn more about the Willie Creek Pearl Farm tour components here.
How do you source electricity and fresh water at Willie Creek Pearl Farm?
We generate our own electricity and fresh water at Willie Creek Pearl Farm. We operate a desalination plant to produce fresh water and our electricity is currently supplied through diesel fuelled generators. We are presently finalising plans to transition to solar powered renewable energy production.
Do staff live at Willie Creek Pearl Farm or do they drive from Broome every day?
Staff/caretakers live on site so there is a presence 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. The majority of our staff do commute in and out of Broome every day. We meet at a centralised location and travel together in company vehicles, or in the coaches that transport our guests. From time-to-time staff might be lucky enough to travel via the chopper to or from work!
Ich habe bereits eine Tour zur Willie Creek Pearl Farm gemacht. Kann ich zum Mittagessen kommen, einkaufen und die Aussicht genießen, ohne eine Tour zu machen?
Ja, Sie sind herzlich willkommen, uns während unserer Öffnungszeiten zu besuchen. Aufgrund unserer saisonalen Öffnungszeiten empfehlen wir Ihnen, im Voraus anzurufen, um sicherzustellen, dass wir geöffnet sind.
Can I camp, swim and/or fish at Willie Creek Pearl Farm?
We do not have camping facilities at Willie Creek Pearl Fam and cannot provide fresh water or ablutions. There is a free camping area at the natural boat ramp, which is not bookable and often frequented by caravans and campervans.
As a guest at Willie Creek Pearl Farm, swimming is not permitted due to the numerous resident crocodiles that frequent the area. We do have some fishing rods with lures that can be borrowed and used during business hours.
Are there any other places to visit near Willie Creek Pearl Farm?
For customised recommendations of places to visit around Willie Creek Pearl Farm, please contact the Broome Visitor Centre. The Broome Visitor Centre can also provide you with further information about camping areas in the vicinity.
Services and amenities are not available at Willie Creek Pearl Farm after hours.
Can I fly a drone at the Willie Creek Pearl Farm?
Flying a drone is not permitted at the Willie Creek Pearl Farm as this is within our helicopter landing zone. Exceptions may be made for media personnel. Permission must be granted by management prior to your visit. Please contact [email protected] for arrangements.
Pearl Luggers Tournee
Is there a café at Pearl Luggers and when is it open?
No. We have a bar facility onsite, but it is only in operation during private functions and events. Please visit our Pearl Luggers Venue Hire page for information on hosting a private event.
Can I book Pearl Luggers as a venue space for a wedding or an event?
Yes, Pearl Luggers is available to hire as a venue space for weddings and other events. More information is available at our Pearl Luggers Venue Hire page
Does Pearl Luggers provide furniture and equipment for events?
Yes, a range of furniture is included in your venue hire. You may bring in other hired furniture More information about available equipment and venue hire is available on our Pearl Luggers Venue Hire page.
I have already undertaken a Pearl Luggers tour. Can I visit Pearl Luggers without booking a tour?
You are welcome to view the historical items on display in the courtyard at Pearl Luggers and in the connecting Chinatown showroom during business hours. The Tenders Store and Dive Room can only be viewed during a Pearl Luggers tour.
Ernten Sie Ihr eigenes Perlenerlebnis
Where does the Harvest Your Own Pearl Experience take place?
The Harvest Your Own Pearl Experience Takes Place in our Elizabeth Quay Showroom in Perth, WA. Showroom information can be found hier.
Woher kommen die Austern für dieses Erlebnis?
Die Austern für dieses Erlebnis kommen von unserer Willie Creek Pearl Farm, die 38 km nördlich von Broome liegt.
Kann ich weitere Gäste zu dem Erlebnis mitbringen?
Unser "Harvest Your Own Pearl"-Erlebnis findet in einem intimen Rahmen statt und ist für 1-2 Gäste ausgelegt. Gelegentlich sind wir in der Lage, weitere 1-2 Gäste zu beherbergen. Wenn Sie zusätzliche Gäste wünschen, senden Sie bitte eine E-Mail an [email protected] vor Ihrem Erlebnis zu buchen. Bitte beachten Sie, dass für zusätzliche Gäste eine Gebühr fällig wird.
Was ist, wenn mir die geerntete Perle nicht gefällt?
If the pearl is valued between $500 and $3,000 AUD, it is yours to keep, or if you do not like the pearl you harvest you are welcome to exchange it for a gift card of equal value, to put towards jewellery purchases in Willie Creek Pearls’ showrooms. For more information, please refer to our Harvest Your Own Pearl Terms and Conditions found at the bottom of this page.
Wie lange dauert es, bis meine geerntete Perle in ein Schmuckstück verwandelt wird? Kostet das extra und wie viel?
Sie haben die Möglichkeit, Ihre lose Perle in einem Käfiganhänger mitzunehmen oder Ihre Perle auf eine vorrätige Schmuckfassung setzen zu lassen, die nur den Preis der Fassung kostet. Wir bemühen uns, das Schmuckstück so schnell wie möglich für Sie fertig zu stellen, können aber garantieren, dass es innerhalb von drei Wochen fertig ist.
Warum ist der Wert der geernteten Perle gedeckelt?
The value of the pearl inside an oyster cannot be known until it is harvested, graded and valued. In order to offer this experience at an affordable rate and in a manner that is viable, we place a $3000 pearl value cap on the experience. Learn more in our Signature Harvest Your Own Pearl Terms and Conditions.
Ist dieses Erlebnis ein geeignetes Geschenk für einen lieben Menschen?
Ja, das Erlebnis "Harvest Your Own Pearl" ist ein einzigartiges und aufregendes Geschenk, an das sich Ihre Lieben noch lange Zeit erinnern werden. Wir bieten dieses Erlebnis in einer als Geschenk verpackten Box oder in digitalem Format zur einfachen Weitergabe an.
Diese Erfahrung scheint zu schön, um wahr zu sein. Was ist der "Haken"?
As a commercial pearl farm operator, Willie Creek Pearls works hard to bring the full experience – from shell to showroom – to our customers. We pride ourselves on being able to offer this experience by bringing shell from our commercial pearl farm in Broome to the heart of Perth. In order to offer this experience in a manner that is viable, we place a $3000 pearl value cap and Keshi pearl rule on the experience. These details are outlined in our Signature Harvest Your Own Pearl Terms and Conditions. Those who do not wish to keep their harvested pearl can exchange it for a showroom gift card of equal value. This experience is a great way for our customers to understand the full journey of the pearl, and to walk away from the experience with a pearl they have harvested, or a gift card to put towards ready to wear jewellery. Take a look at our testimonials for feedback from our previous Harvest Your Own Pearl participants.
Group Pearl Harvest Experience
Wie viele Personen sind gleichzeitig an dieser Erfahrung beteiligt?
Die Gruppe Live Pearl Harvest bietet Platz für mindestens acht und maximal 20 Gäste gleichzeitig.