gemstone

Pearl

Nacre (primarily aragonite, CaCO₃, in an organic conchiolin matrix)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

A rounded, polished cultured pearl with white-to-lavender body color, pearly luster, and concentric nacre layers; Mohs hardness is about 2.5–4.5, with no visible crystal faces and specific gravity around 2.60–2.85.

Identified August 27, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed inside a mollusk when nacre coats an irritant or implanted bead; this appears likely cultured rather than wild. Pearls form in modern marine or freshwater environments, not as ancient rocks.

Uses & applications

Used mainly in jewelry and ornamentation; value depends on size, shape, surface quality, luster, color, nacre thickness, and provenance.

Geological facts

Pearls are organic gemstones rather than minerals in the strict sense. The image may show a freshwater pearl or cultured saltwater pearl, but species and origin cannot be determined visually with certainty.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its cool feel, exceptional pearly surface sheen, layered structure, and slight gritty resistance to a tooth test—though testing can damage it. Common sources include China, Japan, Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.