The Birth of The Pearl - If you have ever wondered how a pearl is created, there are several methods. The natural pearl happens when some form of irritant, often a piece of sand, finds its way into an oyster, clam or mussel. To help protect the mollusc, a secretion is placed around the irritant. As layers build up around the invading irritant a pearl is born.
If you have ever wondered how a pearl is created, there are several methods. The natural pearl happens when some form of irritant, often a piece of sand, finds its way into an oyster, clam or mussel. To help protect the mollusc, a secretion is placed around the irritant. As layers build up around the invading irritant a pearl is born.
The cultured pearl works by the same process except that someone or something places the irritant in the mollusc. Instead of an accidental invasion, the pearl can be forced to grow using the natural process. Sometimes the mollusc can have dozens of irritants placed inside to allow for the creation of pearls.
Pearls can be developed from freshwater or saltwater sources. Most saltwater based pearls are considered to be worth more although there are exceptions to every rule. Freshwater pearls often have more irregular shapes but perfect shaped pearls are not impossible to find.
The imitation pearl has almost no comparison to the birth process of the other pearls. Imitation pearls are most often created by dipping a glass bead into some type of solution of fish scales. Because this solution is very thin, it can easily wear off the bead. You can easily test the imitation pearl by biting on it or rubbing it against a tooth. The smooth feeling reveals the imitation pearl.
No matter how the pearl was 'born', you can enjoy its beauty when it is combined or placed in the perfect piece of pearl jewellery.
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