gemstone
Pearl
Calcium Carbonate (Aragonite/Calcite) with Conchiolin, CaCO3
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: White, cream, silver, gold, pink, purple, or black, Luster: Pearlescent or nacreous, Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (microcrystalline aragonite platelets)
- Hardness
- 2
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: White, cream, silver, gold, pink, purple, or black, Luster: Pearlescent or nacreous, Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (microcrystalline aragonite platelets)
Formation & geological history
Formed within the soft tissue (mantle) of a living shelled mollusk, such as an oyster or mussel, as a defense mechanism against an irritant.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in fine jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, and rings.
Geological facts
Unlike most gemstones that are mined from the earth, pearls are organic gems produced entirely by living organisms.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its characteristic luster (orient) and organic irregularities. Natural and cultured pearls are found in oceans and freshwater lakes globally, heavily farmed in countries like China, Japan, and Australia.
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