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Originally Posted by xeresana Would a cross section of a pearl have that same pearly look you are after? |
No. You need to look through the layers of nacre top down to have them look like a pearl.
I've tried to cut through pearls but it is not easy - mother or pearl is extremely tough... it scratches easily but does not break. What works: a rotating or vibrating saw. You'd need a tiny one, like a lapidary would use.
I'd bet that it is easier to wear away half of the pearl on some harsh polishing wheel to end with a half-pearl. This is how I've got to see my 'crossections' too.
Also, among the cheapest freshwater pearls are baroque ones with a flat side, and the
button pearls and
flat button pearls. Those already have a shape close to what you have in mind.
The examples under the link are relatively large and even under $10 apiece, relatively expensive. You can have entire strands of small freshwater 'button' pearls for that much. Polish the flatter side down, and you've got yourself a half pearl, methinks.
PS. Speaking of wood and pearls... look
HERE. 
... especially for 'The Mabe' section with its wood & mabe pendants...