Pearl
Nacreous Organic Gemstone · Organic Gem
Crystal System
Orthorhombic (Aragonite micro-crystals arranged in concentric layers)
Mineral Group
Carbonates (Biogenic organic mineral aggregate)
Chemical Formula
CaCO3 (Calcium Carbonate in the form of aragonite) and conchiolin
Formation Process
Biogenic formation inside the mantle cavity of marine and freshwater mollusks as a defense mechanism against irritants
About This Crystal
A large, semi-spherical to button-shaped organic gemstone resting in the palm of a hand. It exhibits a lustrous, silky, pearlescent white body color with subtle silvery-pink overtones and a smooth, highly reflective surface showing characteristic orient.
Physical Characteristics
White to cream body color with distinctive iridescence (orient), lacks a traditional crystal habit due to its concretionary growth, no cleavage, uneven fracture, specific gravity of approximately 2.60 to 2.85, good toughness despite being somewhat soft, generally inert under UV light though some saltwater varieties exhibit faint yellow or blue fluorescence.
Optical Properties
Doubly refractive with a characteristic aggregate refractive index ranging from 1.530 to 1.685, exhibits strong iridescence (orient and lustre) caused by the light interference from overlapping microscopic layers of aragonite platelets.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Persian Gulf, South Seas (Australia, Indonesia, Philippines), Tahiti, Japanese waters, and freshwater rivers worldwide
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4.5, making it relatively soft and easily scratched by metals, quartz, and harder gemstones. Requires careful handling and is sensitive to acids, cosmetics, and dehydration.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth using mild soapy water; never use ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, harsh chemicals, or jewelry dips. Store separately in a soft pouch away from hard stones and direct heat to prevent dehydration and cracking.
Rarity & Value
Rarity ranges from common (for mass-produced cultured freshwater pearls) to extremely rare (for large, perfectly round natural saltwater pearls). Value is determined by size, shape, color, luster, surface flawlessness, and origin.
Special Characteristics
Displays oriental luster and iridescence, produced entirely by biological processes without a crystalline mineral lattice growing from geological fluids.
Lore & History
Historically revered as a symbol of purity, wisdom, and wealth across ancient civilizations including Rome, Egypt, and ancient China. Associated with the moon and water elements in traditional crystal lore, linked symbolically with the Third Eye and Crown chakras.