Mikimoto (Kōkichi Mikimoto)

Kōkichi Mikimoto was a Japanese entrepreneur known for pioneering the cultivation of cultured pearls. In the early 20th century, he developed techniques to farm pearls inside oysters, making these beautiful gems more accessible and consistent in quality. His innovations transformed the jewelry industry, allowing people worldwide to enjoy pearls beyond naturally occurring ones. Mikimoto's work established the foundation of modern pearl farming, and his company remains a leading name in the industry today. His contributions are celebrated for blending scientific ingenuity with artistry, creating a sustainable way to produce the elegant pearls treasured in jewelry.