Kokichi Mikimoto succeeded in producing the cultured pearl in 1893, and soon became a leader in innovations of pearl jewelry. He insisted upon the best possible quality of pearls for his unique jewelry, and that standard continues over a century later. Mikimoto pearls go through an extensive inspection process for quality, and only 5% are deemed worthy of being crafted into a Mikimoto design. Mikimoto now adorns women all over the world with his elegant collections.