Pearl Encyclopedia - SelecTraders

Scallop Pearls

Unlike other non-nacreous pearls such as the melo-melo and conch pearls the scallop pearls come from a bivalve mollusc known as the "Mano de Leon" or the "The Pacific Lion's Paw".

The shellfish’s name derives from the unique shape of its shell resembling a lion's paw. Native to the coastal waters of Central and North America it is most commonly found off the coast of Baja California.

The Scallop pearl is a very rare occurrence and is the bi-product of wild-harvested scallops. Due to the rarity of the gem scallops are not sought for their pearls. Scallop fisherman spending their lives harvesting the meat of the shellfish may only find a small handful of pearls during their lifetimes.

They are generally symmetrical in an oval, round, drop, or button shape.These pearls range is size from seed to 40 carats.The colour of the scallop pearl is unique among all pearls and calcareous concretions.

These gems generally display a rare maroon to plum tone and are also found in deep purple, orange and pink.The scallop pearl has a unique 3-dimensional effect within the reflective facets of their surface which ads to the beauty of the gem.