A PEARL stone is an organic gemstone formed within the soft tissue of a mollusk (like oysters or mussels), often as a response to an irritant. Unlike most gemstones which are minerals, pearls are made of calcium carbonate in a crystalline form called aragonite, combined with a protein called conchiolin. Together, they form what is known as nacre or mother-of-pearl.
Color: Typically white or cream, but can also be found in black, gray, pink, blue, gold, or even green.
Types:
Natural Pearls: Formed without human intervention (very rare and expensive).
Cultured Pearls: Created with human assistance by inserting a nucleus into a mollusk.
Freshwater vs. Saltwater Pearls: Freshwater pearls (from rivers/lakes) are more irregular in shape; saltwater pearls (like Akoya, South Sea, and Tahitian) are typically rounder and more lustrous.
Symbolism: Associated with purity, wisdom, wealth, and tranquility.
Zodiac Sign: Often linked to Cancer; used in Vedic astrology as a remedy related to the Moon.
Care: Pearls are soft (2.5–4.5 on Mohs hardness scale) and require delicate handling—avoid acids, perfumes, and rough contact.