Pearls: Ethical Considerations & Vegan Alternatives (2024)

FAQs

Pearls: Ethical Considerations & Vegan Alternatives? ›

Pearls are, by definition, not vegan. This is because pearls are harvested from oysters. Oysters are bivalve mollusks, and while there is ongoing debate about their capacity for sentience and ability to experience suffering, the process of obtaining pearls is undeniably invasive.

Human-made Imitation Pearls

Look for glass pearls and Cotton Pearls (these are totally ethical and made from cotton and mica (mineral dust) and are also known as Utter Ethical Pearls.

Pearls come exclusively from oysters, and are therefore not vegan. They are used exclusively for jewelry—typically either necklaces or earrings. Our current understanding of biology suggests it's possible that oysters lack sentience and are therefore incapable of suffering.

Oysters and other bivalves deserve compassion and don't exist for humans to eat, exploit, or crack open for decorative jewelry. It's speciesist to kill them for their pearls or to eat them.

Contrary to popular belief, pearl farming doesn't have to cause the destruction of marine habitats or sea life. Done properly and consciously, it protects our waterways and the creatures that call it home because in order for pearls to grow, the oysters need a pristine aquatic environment to survive and flourish.

The only ethical pearls on the market are those made from glass, alabaster, plastic, or other human-made materials. However, some of these options are also coated in animal-derived materials, including isinglass, fish scales, oyster scales, and mother-of-pearl powder.

These are usually made of glass and coated in a solution to give the shimmering, iridescent effect of pearls. Unfortunately, these usually aren't suitable for anyone on a plant-powered diet either, as the solution is most often made from fish scales.

Cultured pearls can be considered ethical when cultivated through responsible practices. Pearl farms that prioritize oyster well-being, minimize stress, invest in sustainable populations, and promote transparency contribute to the ethics of the industry.

Oolitic aragonite is renewable, sustainable, has a high calcium content, and boasts a unique morphology comparable to pearl dust, making it an excellent vegan alternative for cosmetic and personal care products.

Vivienne Westwood | Our Swarovski pearls are 100% vegan friendly, created with the highest quality glass, and coated with a pearlescent material.

Does it hurt clams to remove pearls? ›

So if you do remove a pearl that the clam produced, it will not cause any harm to it unless you cut it into half with a knife while trying to retrieve the gem. If you do so carefully, without harming the mollusk, then it likely will produce more pearls over its lifespan in the future.

If the oyster is deemed incapable of producing another pearl, a reputable and sustainable pearl farmer will humanely kill the oyster or sell it for food. Many disreputable oyster farmers cultivating pearls will simply force the oyster open once the pearl is ready for harvest and then toss it back into the sea to die.

Nacre is very common, but producing beaded pearls isn't, so when it comes to just 'how is mother of pearl harvested? ' that part is simple. Pearl farmers or oyster farmers simply scoop the mollusks out of the freshwater, sea or farm they are grown in.

For the most sustainable option, look for vintage or heirloom pearls since they're already sourced and created; here's a guide on how to look for vintage jewelry, pearls and all.

Extreme heat and water can both cause significant damage to pearls, so it's best to avoid wearing them in those circ*mstances. When enjoying activities such as sunbathing or swimming, be sure to remove your pearls beforehand.

Impact on Mental and Emotional Health

Pearl, being ruled by the moon, the planet that regulates our emotions, makes you less rational and more focused on impulses. Emotional Imbalance- Due to its planetary ruler, you might experience mood swings and increased stress and anxiety.

Whether saltwater or freshwater, pearls rarely form naturally. Natural pearl beds all over the world were depleted by those hungry to find the precious gem. Pearl farming and the cultured pearl process were developed to sate appetites for pearls and offer a more sustainable means of acquiring them.

Gifts made of pearls give joy to women

And they should certainly not be missing from any woman's jewellery box. Pearls are a suitable gift for women for Christmas, birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, in short, you can give pearl jewellery at any time.

Investing in a mined diamond may come at a higher ethical cost than pearls. If you've got your sights set on diamonds but would prefer to make a more conscious, eco-friendly purchase, consider a lab-grown diamond or diamond simulant instead.