Cultured pearls, particularly the famed Tahitian black pearl, are French Polynesia's main export and without a doubt the best buy for visitors to the islands. If you are planning to shop for pearls it is wise to first stop by the Pearl Museum in Papeete, where you can find out all about these 'gems of the sea' and learn to judge their quality.

Address: Vaima Center, Rue Jeanne d'Arc, Papeete

Telephone: 452 122

Opening times: Open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 7pm, Sundays and public holidays from 9am to 7pm

Admission: Free