Among the world's 8,000 species of mollusk, only about 20 produce pearls. Found in rivers and seas from Scotland to French Polynesia, these shell fish yield gems in more flavors than you'll find in a spice rack.
Akoya
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The classic white cultured pearl can be found in many a family jewelry box.
Baroque
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Its irregular, non-spherical shape is much sought after by connoisseurs.
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Abalone
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An iridescent, baroque-shaped natural pearl, from the abalone sea snail.
Golden South Sea
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A golden-lipped oyster produces a pearl whose color ranges from champagne to deep yellow; these are rarer than gold.
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White South Sea
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These satiny pearls come from the warm waters of Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Black
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Closely associated with Tahiti, these treasures were once coveted by Queen Elizabeth I.
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Melo
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The melo melo sea snail produces this papaya-hued pearl, prized for its flamelike appearance.
Conch
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Exceptionally rare pink pearls made of a porcelaneous (non-nacreous) material.