mineral
Pearl (Cultured Freshwater)
Calcium Carbonate (Aragonite) - CaCO3
Hardness: 2.5-4.5 (Mohs); Color: White, cream, pink, or lavender with orient iridescence; Luster: Pearly (nacreous); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- White, cream, pink, or lavender with orient iridescence
- Luster
- Pearly (nacreous)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-4.5 (Mohs); Color: White, cream, pink, or lavender with orient iridescence; Luster: Pearly (nacreous); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None
Formation & geological history
Formed biogenically within the soft tissue (mantle) of a living shelled mollusk. The organism secretes layers of nacre around an irritant or nucleus.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used in jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, and rings; also used in cosmetics and traditional medicine when ground into powder.
Geological facts
Pearls are the only gemstones created by a living creature. Freshwater pearls are typically harvested from mussels in lakes and rivers, particularly in China.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for the 'orient' (iridescence) and the 'tooth test' (feels gritty against teeth, unlike smooth plastic beads). Common in jewelry markets worldwide.
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