Pearl
Natural and Cultured Pearl (Biogenic Calcium Carbonate) · Organic Gem
Crystal System
Orthorhombic (Aragonite) or Trigonal (Calcite)
Mineral Group
Carbonates (Biogenic organic mineraloid)
Chemical Formula
CaCO3 (Aragonite/Calcite) with conchiolin and water
Formation Process
Biogenic secretion by mantle tissues of mollusks (oysters and mussels) in response to an irritant
About This Crystal
Spherical to slightly off-round creamy-yellowish or champagne-colored beads strung together on a silver-toned metal chain, exhibiting a soft pearly luster and translucent to opaque body
Physical Characteristics
Creamy yellow-white body color, white streak, no cleavage, uneven fracture, specific gravity around 2.60-2.85, brittle tenacity, sensitive to acids
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative (aragonite), iridescent luster known as orient, caused by light interference from overlapping microscopic platelets of nacre
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Saltwater and freshwater environments globally, notably Persian Gulf, Red Sea, coasts of Japan, Australia, China, and French Polynesia
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4.5, poor toughness, highly vulnerable to household chemicals, cosmetics, acids, and abrasion
Care & Maintenance
Wipe with a soft damp cloth after wearing, store separately in a soft pouch, avoid exposure to perfumes, hairsprays, cosmetics, and ultrasonic cleaning
Rarity & Value
Varies widely from common (cultured freshwater pearls) to extremely rare (natural saltwater pearls); value determined by size, shape, color, luster, and surface cleanliness
Special Characteristics
Displays orient and iridescence due to the micro-structure of alternating layers of aragonite and organic conchiolin
Lore & History
Symbol of purity, wisdom, and wealth across ancient Roman, Greek, and Asian cultures; traditionally associated with the Crown and Third Eye chakras in metaphysical lore, though these are cultural beliefs rather than scientific facts