gemstone

Melo Melo Pearl (or Golden Chalcedony / Yellow Jasper Sphere)

Non-nacreous calcium carbonate pearl (or SiO2 - Silicon Dioxide)

Hardness: 2.5-4.5 (if Melo Melo pearl) or 6.5-7 (if quartz/chalcedony sphere). Color: Warm golden-yellow to orange-brown with smooth polished surface. Luster: Vitreous to waxy or porcelain-like. Structure: Amorphous/microcrystalline.

Hardness: 2
Luster: Vitreous to waxy or porcelain-like

Identified July 22, 2026More gemstone →

Explore Melo Melo Pearl (or Golden Chalcedony / Yellow Jasper Sphere) in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

If a genuine Melo Melo pearl, it is an organic gemstone produced by the Melo melo sea snail found in the South China Sea and Andaman Sea. If a polished stone bead, it is formed via hydrothermal deposition or sedimentary microcrystalline quartz processes.

Uses & applications

Highly valued for fine jewelry, high-end gemstone collections, cabochons, or decorative polished spheres and beads.

Geological facts

Natural Melo Melo pearls are extremely rare and produced naturally without human intervention, as they cannot be cultured. Non-nacreous pearls exhibit a unique flame structure under magnification.

Field identification & locations

Identify by inspecting surface flame patterns under light, density, warmth to the touch, and absence of molding seams. Common in South East Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar).

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