Perlas

Perlas, or pearls, are hard, rounded masses produced within the soft tissue of mollusks, most commonly oysters and freshwater mussels, as a defense against irritants. The principal component is nacre, a layered material of calcium carbonate (aragonite) and organic conchiolin, which creates the pearl’s luster and strength.

Natural pearls form without human intervention when a foreign particle becomes embedded inside the mollusk. Cultured pearls are produced with human assistance: a small piece of mantle tissue, and often a bead nucleus, is surgically implanted, prompting the animal to secrete nacre around the implant. The mollusk is then returned to the water and allowed to form a pearl over months to years.

Today most commercial pearls are cultured, produced in saltwater and freshwater settings in regions such as East Asia (Japan, China), Oceania (Australia, Tahiti), and the Americas.

Pearls occur in a range of colors (white, cream, pink, gold, black) and shapes (round, near-round, button, oval, baroque). The value of a pearl depends on luster, surface quality, shape, size, and color. Natural pearls are rare and typically more valuable; cultured pearls offer a broader market with a wide range of prices.

Pearl farming, or mariculture, is generally considered to have modest environmental impact, though producers monitor water quality and ecosystem effects. Pearl products have historically had cultural significance in jewelry, trade, and adornment across many cultures.