Pearl
Organic Gemstone (Natural/Cultured Pearl) · Organic Gem
Crystal System
Orthorhombic (Aragonite modification) or Trigonal (Calcite modification)
Mineral Group
Carbonates (Biogenic)
Chemical Formula
CaCO3 (Calcium Carbonate) with Conchiolin and Water
Formation Process
Biogenic precipitation within the mantle tissue of mollusks, primarily oysters and freshwater mussels, in response to an irritant
About This Crystal
Spherical to near-spherical biogenic structures exhibiting a creamy off-white or yellowish body color with a characteristic pearly luster, linked together with metallic jump rings and chains
Physical Characteristics
Creamy white to yellowish body color with distinctive iridescent overtones, white streak, no cleavage, uneven fracture, specific gravity of approximately 2.60 to 2.85, soft and brittle tenacity
Optical Properties
Singly refractive appearance with distinctive iridescence and orient (shimmering play of light caused by light interference from overlapping nacre layers)
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Persian Gulf, Red Sea, coasts of India, Sri Lanka, Australia, Japan, French Polynesia, and freshwater lakes and rivers worldwide
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4.5, poor toughness due to susceptibility to scratching and acid degradation, requires careful wearability considerations
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, damp cloth only; avoid all harsh chemicals, cosmetics, perfumes, and ultrasonic or steam cleaners; store separately from harder gems to prevent scratching
Rarity & Value
Varies significantly from common (for cultured and imitation pearls) to extremely rare (for large, high-quality natural saltwater pearls); value depends on size, shape, color, luster, and surface perfection
Special Characteristics
Distinctive orient and iridescence created by the diffraction of light through microscopic overlapping layers of aragonite platelets and conchiolin
Lore & History
Highly valued since antiquity as symbols of purity, wisdom, and wealth; associated with the moon and water in traditional lore, and commonly linked to the third eye and heart chakras in crystal healing practices