A group of islands off the Western Australian coast is set to become one of Australia's key pearl producing regions.
A three-year trial has found the water at the Abrolhos Islands near Geraldton is suitable for growing the traditional Akoya pearls.
Pearl farmer Pia Boschetti says two more pearling companies have already started farming Akoyas at the islands, destined for lucrative international markets.
"The special thing about the Akoya pearls is, if you can look back in history, most women will have a set of small white pearl studs," she said.
"It's a very traditional piece of jewellery, nearly every woman wants a set of these."
