When a tiny foreign object becomes
trapped in an oyster, the object is coated with layers
of a smooth, cystalline substance known as nacre to
reduce the irritation. This natural response produces
the luminescent gems we know as Pearls.
Cultured Pearls, like flowers grown in a greenhouse,
are gently guided through the cultivation process. An
irritant, most often a spherical section of a clam shell
and mantle tissue is deliberately inserted into an oyster,
triggering its natural instinct to produce nacre. Since
this method was perfected in the 1920s, natural Pearls
have become extremely rare. Due to economic pressures
and water pollution, virtually all new Pearls on the
market today are cultured.
For more information, visit our Pearl
Guide.
