A clam pearl or not?

[meredith]

Here it is - is it a clam pearl? Creamy colour, very regular shape, extremely smooth underside ... A slight flame pattern can be seen around the top with the looking glass. It comes from the Flores Sea. Measurements 16 x 10mm, approximate weight 4,56g ... Is it a clam pearl? Is it nice? I like it ...

 

[Orient]

A nice shape but the images are not as clear as the ones of your probable cultured pearl. Given the size and appearance it is probably a Tridacna (clam) pearl, possibly gigas. Do you see any flame structure (likely quite fine) anywhere?

 

[GemGeek]

Try shining a spot light at it from above in an area where the ambient light is low. A small flashlight should work. And look for a "ring of fire" flame pattern that follows the light.

 

[meredith]

I can see a slight flame pattern but only with magnifier

 

[pattye]

Nice size, interesting shape too. Thanks for sharing!

 

[meredith]

Can it be manmade, it's so regular and smooth!?

 

[GemGeek]

Not if it has a flame pattern. Maybe you should have it made into a ring.

 

[Caitlin]

That is some pearl! It probably did come from some kind of clam.

I see others like those claiming to be Tridacna gigas pearls, though the only t gigas pearls I have ever seen in situ, are the large convoluted, brain-looking pearls with no flame patterns anywhere. I really wonder about the tiny ones with flames...maybe they are actually from a smaller species. This is an interesting mystery!

I agree with the Geek, get it set, but do not drill it; no clam pearl I know of, whether freshwater or salt water has pearls that can be safely drilled.

 

[AMc]

Nice find - the shape is really interesting!