A visit to Mr. Ung’s pearl farm is not just about purchasing gems—it’s an experience, a glimpse into a world where tradition, passion, and nature come together to create something truly extraordinary
By: Alessia Kerr
A pearl farm is an unassuming sight—a calm stretch of water dotted with rows of buoys that barely break the surface. These buoys mark the lines where oysters are suspended, quietly doing their work below. At first glance, it might seem like just floating markers, but beneath lies a world of careful cultivation and natural beauty.
At Ao Yon’s larger beach, you’ll find one of these setups. Owned by Mr. Krisngsqk Ung, this tucked-away pearl farm has been a family treasure since 1973. But visiting this farm isn’t only about buying jewellery—it’s a fascinating learning experience where you’ll be seeing firsthand the dedication and tradition that goes into each pearl. Mr. Ung is always eager to show visitors the meticulous process behind his craft, from open water farming to the precision polishing that produces perfect lusters.
So, how does it work? Harvesting pearls is a careful task that requires patience and skill. Mr. Ung begins by gently lifting the oysters from the water, their shells weathered by time spent beneath the sea. Using a specialised knife, he opens each oyster with precision, ensuring neither the pearl nor the oyster is harmed. The pearls are then carefully removed, rinsed, and polished to bring out their natural lustre.
Once the pearls are ready, they’re handed over to Mr. Ung’s wife, Khun Nuanpit. She designs most of the jewellery herself and offers customers the chance to create custom pieces. Each pearl is unique, and so is the jewellery made from it; something to treasure for yourself, or as a gift something unique for a loved one.
This farm isn’t just any farm—it’s a place of deep-rooted tradition. In 1995, Mr. Ung was recognized by the late King Rama IX, the Kingdom’s beloved monarch Bhumibol Adulyadej, as “Thailand’s Most Distinguished Farmer,” a testament to his dedication and expertise.
For Mr. Ung, this farm is more than a livelihood—it’s his life’s work. Visitors leave with a greater appreciation for the pearls and the effort it takes to produce them. If you’re in the area, this is a spot you shouldn’t miss. The sheer pride and joy displayed by the Ung family as they explain their business are worth the visit alone, nevermind the priceless opportunity of buying some Ao Yon jewellery.