Pearls Exhibition

Subject:

Science and Technology

Institution Name:

American Museum of Natural History

Collection:

American Museum of Natural History

Grade Level:

Primary, Secondary

Abstract:

This Web site, created to complement an American Museum of Natural History exhibition, takes an in-depth look at pearls. It includes the following sections .What Are Pearls? covers how pearls are formed naturally; what causes differences in surface, size, shape, color, overtone, luster, and iridescence; and how imitation pearls are created. Obtaining Pearls looks at the different ways pearls and mother-of-pearl have been gathered throughout history. Freshwater Pearls describes the pearl-forming mollusks that live in lakes, rivers, and streams, and the gems they create. Marine Pearls looks at marine mollusks, the best-known sources of pearls, and how each species has a unique form, ecology, and history. Pearls in Human History examines how pearls became important symbols of wealth, status, and religious beliefs, as well as how mother-of-pearl shells had an even higher value for some cultures. Gallery includes a multimedia presentation on the evolution of mollusks and annotated photographs of everything from a giant clam shell to Marilyn Monroe's necklace.

Course Type:

Learning Module

Languages:

English

Material Type:

Readings

Media Format:

Graphics/Photos, Text/HTML

Conditions of Use:

Custom Permissions
All text, images, and software code on this website are copyright property of the American Museum of Natural History and its programmers unless otherwise noted. They may be used for the personal education of website visitors. They may not be placed in the public domain. Any commercial reproduction, redistribution, publication, or other use by electronic means or otherwise is prohibited unless pursuant to a written license signed by the Museum.