McLeod Pearls is a family-owned and operated pearl business producing genuine Cook Islands cultured black pearls from our own pearl farm in Manihiki. Since 1989, we have built our farm through resilience, hard work, and a deep respect for the craft, creating pearls and jewellery designed to be treasured for a lifetime.
McLeod Pearls is a family-owned and operated Cook Islands pearl business with roots in Manihiki. In 1989, our father, George McLeod, left New Zealand and travelled to Manihiki to begin pearl farming after being inspired by his cousin, Tere Kauraka. What started as a bold “yes” to a new life on the atoll became a long-term commitment to producing beautiful, genuine Cook Islands cultured black pearls.
Satisfied customers worldwide and growing
Our early years were hands-on and full of learning. John remained on Manihiki to train and gain practical experience on an established pearl farm, while Apii returned at the end of 1990 to join the work on the ground. George returned every six months, and over time other family members also came to support the journey.
One of our biggest challenges came with Cyclone Martin in 1997, which caused major loss of materials and buildings. We rebuilt slowly using local resources and steady determination, and continued to strengthen the farm as funds became available. Our first harvest in 2003 created the cashflow needed to expand and invest in quality materials to grow the farm further.
George passed away in 2007, and today John and Apii continue the legacy, carrying forward the family vision with pride.
We do not operate with a formal mission statement. Our purpose has always been simple: to produce beautiful pearls and turn them into pearl jewellery that can be enjoyed, treasured, and loved.
Our core values guide everything we do:
Integrity
Honesty
Happy customers
We are producers, and we know our product from the lagoon to the showcase. Nearly every cent earned through our pearl farm has been reinvested into building it up to produce more quality pearls.
We offer:
Unset pearls
Set pearl jewellery
Keshi pearls
Mabe and blister pearls
Custom-made pearl jewellery using our pearls, or our customers’ own pearls
Pearl valuation services
Apii is also a qualified pearl grader, and our pearls are set and mounted by us.
Regional offices around the world
We do not operate with a formal mission statement. Our purpose has always been simple: to produce beautiful pearls and turn them into pearl jewellery that can be enjoyed, treasured, and loved.
Our core values guide everything we do:
Integrity
Honesty
Happy customers
We have learned every part of this business from the ground up, from pearl farming through to retail, and we are proud to share genuine Cook Islands pearls with customers from around the world.
Farm Manager & Co-Owner
Retail Manager & Co-Owner
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