arvest average of about thirteen millimeters” (Anderson). The Burmese pearls are produced off the coasts of Burma. They too are rare and expensive. A Mabe pearl is large in size and has a hemispherical shape. It is less expensive and is usually found in rings, brooches, and earrings because of its shape (Kelley Jewelers). These are only a few of the many different types of pearls.There are many factors that decide the value of a pearl. One of these determinants is the scarcity of the gem. Because of the number of years they take to grow and limited areas in which they can be grown, cultured pearls are considered rare. Size is also a contributing factor. Generally, the larger the pearl, the more money it will cost. This is mainly because many oysters do not produce very large pearls. Another determinate for a precious pearl is the orient, which is its ability to “absorb, refract, and reflect light” (Kelley Jewelers). A valuable pearl has a deep luster and iridescence. Shape also contributes to the value of a pearl. The more symmetrical the pearl the more valuable it is. The final characteristic that is looked at during the pricing of a pearl is the surface perfection. A valuable pearl is silky smooth in appearance (Kelley Jewelers). All of these factors play an important role in determining the value for each pearl.The modern pearling industry is still fairly new. The industry now contains high-tech labs, boats and safety efficient farming rules. “The Paspaley Pearling company pioneered the development of the purpose-built boats which revolutionized the industry, transporting live shell, allowing seeding at the farms and making life far more comfortable for the many workers” (Fisheries Western Australia). Modern diving techniques are much more competent than those of the past. “Today’s divers use wetsuits and hookah breathing apparatus; the hookah hoses are attached to booms...
