pearl (animal material)
- Scope note
- A smooth round bead formed primarily within the shells of two distantly related groups of molluscan bivalves or clams, including the ocean-dwelling pearl oysters and the freshwater river mussels. Pearls are used in jewelry and for other ornamental puposes; they are considered a gem.
- Date of creation: 02-Sep-2024
Accepted term: 02-Sep-2024