What are Blister Pearls?

Blister pearls are unique formations that occur naturally within mollusk shells, particularly oysters and mussels. They are created when an irritant, such as a parasite, becomes trapped between the soft inner tissue (mantle) and the protective shell of the mollusk.

To defend itself, the mollusk secretes nacre, the very same material that forms pearls, around the irritant. This nacreous coating encases the irritant, creating an irregularly shaped pearl. Unlike classic pearls that grow freely within the mollusk's body, this protective layer attaches to the shell, resulting in the blister pearl's unique flattened side and one-of-a-kind appearance.

L'Amour Pearls. Pinctada radiata, a saltwater pearl oyster with Blister pearl.

Blister pearls can exhibit a wide range of colors, including white, cream, pink, blue, and even black, depending on the type of mollusk and the environment in which they are formed. Their irregular shapes and distinctive characteristics make them prized by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts for their natural beauty and rarity. 

L'Amour Pearls. Pinctada radiata, a saltwater pearl oyster with Blister pearl.

The integration of blister pearls into jewelry requires skillful craftsmanship. Artisans extract them from the mollusk shell's inner surface, prioritizing the preservation of their unique form. Once extracted, these gems become the focal points of jewelry creations. Blister pearls, can be used as a standalone statement piece or incorporated into intricate designs.