The essence of the Mikimoto brand is defined by the continual pursuit of the ideal. We have made this pursuit our responsibility, and it is what generates our unshakeable dedication to quality. There is no room for compromise in our quest to perfect the exquisite jewels that will finally be presented to our customers. Our goal is not just to meet requirements; it is to find the ideal gem and thus to justify the pride we take in calling our works Mikimoto. Fine jewelry is a union of inspired design and unparalleled materials - the jewels themselves. Expert Shogo Yamashiro has spent 15 years of his life finding precious gems. He tells us "Of course the gems must be beautiful. But that is not to say they should be simply perfect. A top quality gem always has something different to say to us. The key is to identify that uniqueness and to bring it out to best effect." Yamashiro believes that each jewel belongs to its own stage, and feels driven to convince his fellow craftsmen of this point. Determined to continue expanding his own horizons and refine his own sensibilities, Yamashiro is an enthusiastic networker. "We must always be learning from the gems, and from the people who work with them", he says. "To discover the true character of the gems requires long years of experience". Speaking of the 'life of the gem' he carries on research that helps release the brilliance and vitality of each example of Mikimoto's art.