Pearls
Pearls are technically beads since they are drilled and strung. They are a type of gem that is formed inside the soft tissue of a living mollusk, such as an oyster or mussel. The mollusk produces the pearl as a defense mechanism against an irritant, such as a grain of sand. The irritant becomes coated with layers of nacre, a smooth, iridescent substance that is also found in the mollusk’s shell. Over time, the layers of nacre build up and form a pearl.
Pearls are typically round or oval in shape, but they can also be found in other shapes, such as baroque and button. They come in a variety of colors, including white, cream, pink, yellow, and black. Pearls are often used in jewelry, and they are considered to be a symbol of luxury and elegance.
