The world famous Japanese firm of Mikimoto was founded almost 100 years ago by Kokichi Mikimoto who developed cultured pearl farming into an international business by patenting the process. Cultured pearls are prized for their affordability and the consistent quality of luster and size. Today, the name of Mikimoto is synonymous with cultured pearls of the highest quality, and has stores located throughout the world including Shanghai, Paris, New York and Los Angeles.