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Pinctada maxima
Pearls produce by cultured South Sea pearls are also among the largest cultured pearls produced in the world, ranging in size from 9-20 mm, and an average size of around 13 mm. Among the reasons adduced for the growth of such large pearls are :- 1) the large size of the oyster 2) the large size of the implanted bead 3) the conducive environment in which the oyster grows 4) the long growth period of the oyster.
The larger size of the oyster enables the growth of a larger pearl, as well the acceptance of a larger bead. Besides the presence of a larger gonad, where the bead is usually implanted, enables a faster deposition of nacre around the nucleus, in the warm conditions of the sea, that enhances the metabolism of the oyster. South Sea pearls are harvested only after a minimum period of two years, which allows the pearls to grow to a much larger size.
http://www.internetstones.com/imperial-hong-kong-pearl-miracle-of-the-sea.html
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