The Conch Natural Pearl - Treasure from the Caribbean

Queen Conch

Occurrence

The conch natural pearl is one of the rarest pearls in the world. Its creation is a pure chance of nature. Every year, at the most, 2000 - 3000 conch pearls are fished from the flat waters around the coasts of Florida, the Bahamas, the Yucatan and the Antilles islands. Only 15 - 20% are suitable for making jewelry.  All previous attempts at cultivating them have failed because the Strombus Gigas sea snail that produces this pearl is extremely sensitive. The complicated spiral form of the snail shell means that it is not possible to reach the pearl-forming part without endangering the life of the animal.
 

Characteristics

The conch pearl has a specific weight of 2.85 and is heavier than any other pearl. It is also harder and more resistant. It is above all enchanting because of its fascinating play of colors: from white to delicate pink to luminous pink, or from cream to olive to chocolate brown. The most noble pearls show on their surface a wavy structure like the finest silk or in some cases they are strongly grained. Unlike other pearls the conch is evaluated in carats. The normal sizes are between 2 and 6 carats. Pearls 8 to 12 carats are already a rarity and 20 carat pearls and larger are unique collectors’ items.

Stocks of conch pearls are in danger

The increasing problem world-wide of environmental pollution is also endangering the stocks of the strombus gigas. They have already been drastically reduced in extensive parts of the Caribbean. That is why a ten-year long fishing ban was proclaimed a few years ago for the coasts around Columbia. The fishing bans will probably be extended. This means that the conch pearl will remain precious, rare and exclusive.
 

The pink or conch pearl is produced by the Queen Conch. Conch pearls are porcelain-like, have a silky glimmer and in most cases a wavy pattern. If the bright points are looked at through a magnifying glass, you will see closed structures which resemble little flames. The colors range from a whitish yellow to a pale or bright pink. Conch pearls are extremely rare. more

Queen Mary Brooch
24.9 carats (top)
28.1 carats (bottom)

This excellent example of conch pearl jewelry belonged to Queen Mary (1867–1953), the wife of King George V. Conch pearls were particularly popular in Europe during the early 20th century. Their deep color and the silky sheen across the surface distinguish this type of natural pearl from traditional pearls.

Top Fred Leighton's platinum conch pearl ,and diamond rondele necklace $325,000.

Tiffany and Company Melo melo pearl $178,000 (Next Pearl Persectives).

Eclat's conch pearl cross $76,000.