Melo Melo Pearl
Non-nacreous Pearl from Melo melo (Bailer Snail) · Organic Gemstone
Crystal System
Orthorhombic (as Microcrystalline Aragonite and Calcite); spherical or ovoid habit
Mineral Group
Carbonates (Aragonite/Calcite group)
Chemical Formula
CaCO3 with organic protein (Conchiolin) and trace elements affecting color
Formation Process
Biogenic; formed inside the Melo melo sea snail as a defensive response to foreign irritants through layers of calcite and aragonite
About This Crystal
A spherical, non-nacreous pearl characterized by a porcelain-like (porcellaneous) luster and a creamy white to pale tan color. It exhibits a smooth, polished surface with faint wavy patterns.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Creamy white to pale yellow; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.60-2.85; Fluorescence: Often inert to weak yellow under UV
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.530-1.685; Opaque to translucent; Silky porcellaneous luster; distinctive flame-like structure (chatoyancy) in higher quality specimens
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Coastal waters of Southeast Asia, specifically Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 2.5 - 4.0; Very soft and susceptible to scratching; brittle; poor durability for daily ring wear
Care & Maintenance
Extremely sensitive to acids, perspiration, and chemicals. Clean only with a soft damp cloth. Store in a soft pouch away from sunlight to prevent drying or fading.
Rarity & Value
Relatively rare compared to nacreous pearls; value factors include size, roundness, and intensity of 'flame' pattern; large specimens are highly coveted by collectors.
Special Characteristics
Lacks nacre (non-nacreous); exhibits a porcellaneous luster rather than a pearly one; some specimens show flamboyant wavy structures internally.
Lore & History
Historically prized by Vietnamese royalty (the Nguyen Dynasty) as a symbol of power and luck. Unlike oyster pearls, they were never successfully cultured, making every specimen 100% natural.