freshwater pearl

A freshwater pearl is a pearl produced by a freshwater mollusk, often very small. Pearls are concretions formed by mollusks, consisting of nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl. These are highly valued gemstones, characterized by their translucence, luster, and surface color, known as orient.12

The value of a pearl is determined by its shape and luster. While saltwater pearls are often called Oriental pearls, those from freshwater mollusks are known as freshwater pearls. The primary component of nacre is aragonite, a form of calcium carbonate, along with a small amount of conchiolin, an organic substance.2

Pearls can vary in color, including black, white, cream, gray, blue, yellow, lavender, green, and mauve. They also come in various sizes, with very small ones called seed pearls. The introduction of cultured pearls has significantly impacted natural pearl fisheries.2