How does a pearl form?
A natural pearl forms when a foreign body such as a parasite or or other object lodges itself in the soft body of an oyster. The oyster attempts to protect itself by secreting pearl nacre, a smooth crystalline substance that surrounds and ultimately encases the object. As layer upon layer of nacre is added, the object becomes larger and a pearl is formed. Natural pearls – those for which the irritant finds its way into the oyster’s shell solely by acts of nature – are extremely rare nowadays, due to ocean pollution and over-harvesting. When found, they are usually heirloom pieces commanding extraordinarily high prices.
