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How Are Pearls Formed in Nature?

How Are Pearls Formed in Nature?

Pearl

Natural Pearl Gemstones

Natural pearl gemstones form inside certain species of mollusks, such as oysters and mussels. When an irritant, such as a grain of sand or a parasite, becomes lodged in the mollusk’s soft tissue, the mollusk secretes layers of a crystalline substance called nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl, around the irritant. Over time, these layers build up, resulting in the formation of a pearl. This natural process can take several years, ultimately creating the lustrous and beautiful gemstone known as a pearl.