Tahitian pearl facts for kids
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The Tahitian pearl is a special gem that forms inside a type of oyster called the black-lip oyster (Pinctada margaritifera). These beautiful pearls get their name because they are mostly grown around the islands of French Polynesia, especially near Tahiti. People sometimes call them "black pearls" because of their unique dark colors.
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What Makes Tahitian Pearls Special?
Tahitian pearls come in many colors, from white to black. They can also have hints of green, pink, blue, silver, or yellow. The darkest pearls are usually the most valuable. This is because it's rare for pearls to be naturally dark. A truly black Tahitian pearl is very hard to find and is considered one of the most beautiful pearls in the world. Most pearls called "black" are actually dark gray, silver, or deep green.
One cool thing about Tahitian pearls is that the oyster they grow in is quite big. It can weigh up to ten pounds! This means the pearls inside can grow larger than average. Tahitian pearls also come in many shapes, like round, oval, teardrop, or even unique "baroque" shapes. Their wide range of colors and shapes makes them perfect for all kinds of jewelry.
How Are Tahitian Pearls Grown?
Growing Tahitian pearls is a careful process. An expert called a "grafter" gently places a tiny bead, made from a mollusk shell, into the oyster's reproductive part. This bead acts like a seed for the pearl. It takes about two years for an oyster to grow big enough to start making pearls.
Along with the bead, a small piece of tissue from another oyster is added. This tissue helps decide the pearl's color. It also makes sure the oyster covers the bead with a shiny substance called nacre. Nacre is what makes pearls beautiful and shimmery. All the materials used are natural, so the oyster is less likely to reject the bead. The whole process is done quickly because oysters can't live long out of water.
Tahitian Pearls: A Big Export
Tahitian pearls are very important to French Polynesia. They are the country's biggest export, meaning they sell a lot of them to other countries. Pearls make up over 55% of French Polynesia's yearly exports, which is about 20 million dollars! The farms where these pearls are grown are in the clear blue waters of the Tuamotu-Gambier Archipelago. This is one of the groups of islands that make up French Polynesia.
See also
In Spanish: Perla de Tahití para niños
