The Culturing of the Savage Pearl

 A pearl is a remarkable thing of beauty. It has a subtle elegance that no other gemstone matches. Pearls use to only be available at the whims of nature. Fortunately though we have developed a process which allows us to cultivate, or culture, these fine treasures, enabling us to enjoy pearls more often.  The oyster is brought out of the water, and a small irritant, usually a piece of shell or oyster tissue is inserted into the oyster. The oyster then activates its natural defense system and starts to coat the intruder with a layer of nacre. It keeps doing this until a full pearl is formed. This process, depending on the oyster and size of pearl desired, can take anywhere from 2 to 7 years. A common misconception of this process is that a grain of sand is used to “seed” the oyster. While sand can cause a pearl to be formed it is much more likely that a bead, piece of shell, or chunk of tissue was used. These provide more reliable pearls, and pearl shapes, great for pearl necklaces and pearl earrings.

The culturing of pearls has provided a unique opportunity for those who desire this jewel. They are able to have a real pearl made through the same process as natural pearls without having to wait as long. It also provides the chance to have longer strands of matching pearls. Whatever the case may be, the culturing of pearls has truly made the jewelry world a better place.