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Cultured pearl

cul·​tured pearl | ˈkəl-chərd pər(-ə)l

noun

A pearl created by a mussel farmer or oyster farmer, under controlled conditions

In the world of pearls, there are two key types: the natural pearl and the cultured pearl. Both the natural and the cultured are deemed real gemstones; however, the way in which each is formed truly differentiates them. The cultured pearl is produced by an oyster or mollusk, but with the support of a human being. Therefore, cultured pearls are real pearls, however, they were not formed organically. Furthermore, it is important to know there are 2 premier types of cultured pearls, one is named freshwater and the other saltwater. The term “culture pearl” is an oyster or mollusk that is contrived with a small grain of sand. From there, the mollusk expels a unique coating, protecting itself from the source of irritation. Proceeding, various layers are conglomerated, forming a real pearl. Today, a large majority of those that are sold are cultured.

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