Re: Giant Clam Nuclei
Re: Giant Clam Nuclei
This is not a rumor and is actually an escalating problem. It is much more widespread than most people are certainly aware. This is partly because it is very difficult to test the nucleus without destroying the pearl.
The Giant Clam, or the Tridacna is a protected species. It is, however, bring harvested in mass in China to be used as pearl nuclei. The problem is not just in China, however, as these beads are being exported all over the world. The Mississippi nuclei have been the standard for the last century, but exports of these beads has been declining for several years, while pearl output has gone up. I feel that this is largely due to the illegal use of the Giant Clam.
There are two reasons that I feel pearls should not be nucleated with these beads. The first is that the Tridacna is of course and protected species. This is true for all members of the Tridacnidae family. Trading in this species requires special permits that have never been granted for use in pearling. The penalty here in the United States for breaking this law is $200,000, and up to one year in prison! But the controls are just not set up in China to control this illegal trade.
The second reason they should not be used is that pearling standards indicate that the nucleus should be made of the nacreous substance with the same density and material of the pearl itself. The Giant Clam shell does not fit this description and therefore is not considered part of the pearl family.
This can have several adverse effects. The first is that people are completely unaware that they are receiving a pearl with an inferior nucleus. This affects the quality of the pearl, and ultimately its value. Also, these pearls are much more prone to cracking during the drilling process. Unless the pearl seller works his or her own pearls, they probably would never know this.
Like I said, although this problem is originating in China, it is not exclusive to China in that the Chinese are trading these nuclei all over the world at very low prices. Only the farmers ultimately know what they are using. When I deal with a new farm for the first time I always go to the farm to observe the nucleation of the oysters. I check the nuclei, break several into pieces, and ensure that the farmer is dealing with quality product. I do not feel that it is worth the savings up just a few cents per pearl to use this inferior nucleus.
I would suggest that if you are worried about this to talk to the farmer or the agent that is dealing with the farm. Ask for proof of where they obtained their nuclei before making any sizable investment. If they have nothing to hide it will be quite simple for them to produce.
