THE CULTURING PROCESS
SYNERGIES OF NATURE AND NURTURE
Since the late 19th century, pearl farmers worldwide have perfected cultured pearl production through relentless efforts, dedication, and scientific advancement.
Modern pearl farming blends scientific and traditional techniques, refined over years, to produce pearls of outstanding quality. Ultimately, pearls are nature’s organic creations, and the excitement of harvesting them remains timeless.
From the collection of oysters to the sorting of the harvest, pearl cultivation consists of five stages detailed below.
Collection of Oysters
The culturing process begins with the collection of wild oysters from the seabed. In conjunction with hatchery oysters, they are then readied for nucleation or seeding.
Seeding of Oysters
Aboard pearling ships, expert technicians implant the oysters with a clamshell bead nucleus. This process requires surgical precision to make sure the oyster is not harmed. They are then returned to the ocean and the rest is up to nature.
Oyster Maintenance
Oyster shells accumulate marine growth that needs to be periodically cleaned to maintain a healthy oyster — this enables the formation of high-quality pearls.
Extraction of Pearls
After the seeded nuclei have been coated with enough nacre, the oysters are raised from the ocean for careful extraction of the pearls. This is where the fruits of nature and nurture are finally revealed.
Sorting and Grading
After the pearls are collected, they are sorted and graded according to distinct parameters. The pearls can then make their way to traders and wholesalers, and thus have begun their journey from oysters to glimmering jewels.
