The authors recently examined a natural light cream near-button pearl weighing 4.27 ct. Externally, the pearl exhibited a dark brown non-nacreous base with significant surface-reaching cracks. Notably, the center of the base displayed a cavity formation with a web-like structure (figure 1). When viewed under higher magnification, very thin thread-like filaments containing small yellow globules trapped between them were observed (figure 2), resembling the delicate and intricate features of a spiderweb. However, the identity of the fibrous formation remains unknown as its fragile nature prevented any analytical testing that might cause damage to the pearl.
Spiderwebs are renowned for their fascinating structures, often showcasing complex patterns and fine, silky threads. The web-like formation observed in this pearl possesses qualities that are both enchanting and peculiar.
Eram Shaikh is an analytics technician at GIA in Mumbai. Abeer Al-Alawi is a consultant to GIA.
The authors recently examined a natural light cream near-button pearl weighing 4.27 ct. Externally, the pearl exhibited a dark brown non-nacreous base with significant surface-reaching cracks. Notably, the center of the base displayed a cavity formation with a web-like structure (figure 1). When viewed under higher magnification, very thin thread-like filaments containing small yellow globules trapped between them were observed (figure 2), resembling the delicate and intricate features of a spiderweb. However, the identity of the fibrous formation remains unknown as its fragile nature prevented any analytical testing that might cause damage to the pearl.
Spiderwebs are renowned for their fascinating structures, often showcasing complex patterns and fine, silky threads. The web-like formation observed in this pearl possesses qualities that are both enchanting and peculiar.
Eram Shaikh is an analytics technician at GIA in Mumbai. Abeer Al-Alawi is a consultant to GIA.
