Introduction
The interesting Pearl Chemistry Magic: How Oysters Make Gems demonstrates how oysters resort to biology and chemistry to make beautiful pearls. This combination of science and nature is just amazing.
The Biology of Oysters and Calcium Carbonate Magic
When something foreign invades the mantle of an oyster, the oyster initiates a chemical protection response which is chemical. Instead, they excrete layers of calcium carbonate (usually aragonite) and protein conchiolin, which cements together as nacre to form a glossy protective covering. This process of nature turns a small irritating grain into a beautiful gem as months or years pass on piling up nacre to create a pearl.
Natural Pearl Growth and Nacre Formation
The Pearl Chemistry Magic is based on the Nacre layering. With every day, oysters lay down microscopic scales of crystalline growth–sheets which are only a few microns thick. These layers are formed by epithelial cells in the mantle and reflect the light and leading to the iridescent luster of the pearls. Wild oysters also react similarly to parasites or tissue damage, not necessarily grains of sand, too. This is imitated in cultured pearl, where a nucleus or graft mantle is inserted carefully.
In oysters, this is the chemistry-based gem-construction ceremony, whether they be saltwater or fresh. The result? Bright pearls black to creamy whites in various oyster species, shell pigments,and the condition of the environments. The Pearl Chemistry Magic also explicates the reason behind the difference in pearl quality on the basis of nacre thickness, luster, shape, and size.
That continuous process of bio-mineralization has made pearls unique in the world of gemstones; they are not created by the heat and pressure found in the earth, but are the product of living chemistry. They are a blend of science and magic in their organic composition and the wonderful luster of their beauty.
Call to Action
Find out more about this natural miracle and experience a trip to the world of pearls in your jewelry or science kits- Pearls: A Chemistry Magic; how the oysters create the gems makes science fun. Learn more.
