Tahitian Freshwater Pearls?

[SteveM]

That is really interesting!

But somehow I think that the so-called shell pearls sold on eBay are not these labor intensive ones described by Kari, based on their low price.
e.g. "Rare Huge 12mm Genuine South Sea Shell Pearl Round Beads Necklace 20'' AAA+" now listed on eBay for $6.99 with free shipping.

CIBJO has been tasked!

"Genuine SS Shell Pearl" reminds me of a souvenir stand when exiting the Ephesus ruins in Turkey a couple years ago, marquis stating "AUTHENTIC FAKE WATCHES." Apparently it was effective.