| This is a possibility. But in your previous post you stated that some nuclei were as hard as rock, while others broke apart.
The density of the Tridacna shell is is less than that of nacre, so the pearl shattering makes sense. However, I am unsure whether or not it would be 'hard' at times.
I know that 'Admin' has contacted a few pearl farms in French Polynesia in regards to your 'Cracking Pearls' thread. I will also drop a note to a farmer friend of mine in the Cook Islands to see if he has any information. Hopefully we will be able to come up with an answer to this intriguing question. |