On their whirlwind royal tour of Australasia, newly-weds Harry and Meghan spent some time enjoying everything Fiji has to offer. As well as market visits and kava ceremonies, the royal couple also met with First Lady Sarote Konrote, where Meghan was gifted a stunning pearl necklace.

Discover the story behind this symbolic gesture and how you can get your hands on your own Fijian pearl necklace.

The story behind Meghan Markle's pearl necklace

While attending a meeting at Borron House, the Duchess of Sussex was gifted an exquisite 18-inch pearl necklace by the First Lady. The necklace featured 37 high-grade naturally multi-coloured pearls sourced from renowned pearl farm, J.Hunter Pearls. Colours ranged from shimmering greens to magnificent bronzes, brilliant blues to gun-metal greys.

The pearls from the Savusavu region are a product of the Pinctada Margaritifera-Typica oyster – a subspecies of the black-lipped Tahitian oyster. Their pearls are one of the world's rarest and their multi-coloured tones are highly sought after by pearl connoisseurs from all corners of the globe.

Speaking to the Fiji Sun, Ms Hunter explained that the necklace was the perfect embodiment of the Fijian Government's role in the 2017 United Nations Climate Change Conference aka COP 23.

"Fiji's role in COP 23 is to take care of our ocean," she said.

J. Hunter Pearl Farm practises a sustainable farming operation, which is one of the key signatures of the COP 23 initiative.

The pearls of Savusavu are highly sought after around the world.

Receive your very own Fijian pearl necklace

At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we pride ourselves on our unique attractions and excursions. Of those on offer, lucky guests can join a trip to J.Hunter Pearl Farm. The tour offers insight into the history of pearl farming in Fiji, as well as a guided boat trip around the farm itself. Here, guests can view oysters at different stages of growth as they suspend on 200 metre-long lines that run three to five metres below the ocean's surface.

There's even the option to dive down to view the oysters up close if weather permits, so bring a snorkel just in case!

Afterwards, stroll round the showroom and purchase individual pearls or exquisite pieces of jewellery, just like Meghan's.

When staying at our eco-friendly luxury resort, guests can experience a true Fijian experience. If you'd like to find out how we can make your Fijian holiday one to remember, get in touch with the team today.