The process and the steps of pearl farming, including the benefits to Essay

The process and the steps of pearl farming, including the benefits to the environmental surrounding - Essay Example Eventually, the researcher will distinguish the differences between pearl oyster and a regular oyster. Prior to the conclusion, the researcher will discuss the positive impact of pearl farming on eco-tourism business in terms of the need to preserve the natural sea environment. Since the 17th century, the United States has been considered as a major source of fresh-water pearls. The â€Å"Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm† which was founded by John Latendresse back in 1979 is the only freshwater pearl farm in the country. (American Pearl Company, 2008; U.S. Pearl Cultivation, 2008) In general, oyster pearls can either be produced in either fresh- or salt-water or both. Salt-water pearls are rounder, bigger, smoother and have a better luster. (Khulsey, 2008) Aside from the physical characteristics of these pearls, one of the most obvious differences between the two types of pearl is the fact that fresh-water pearls are cheaper as compared to salt-water pearls. Pearls that are bred for only a year is significantly cheaper than pearls bred for 30 years or more. (Journal Wuxi: Pearl of Taihu Lake, 2006) The scientific name of fresh water pearl oysters is known as the ‘Pinctada’ family which is totally different from edible oysters known as the ‘Ostreidae’. (Pacific Island, 2008) Silver- or gold-lip pearls mainly come from ‘Pinctada maxima’ whereas the black-lip pearls come from ‘Pinctada margaritifera.’ Saltwater white pearls in Japan’s white pearls come from ‘Pinctada fucata martensi’ which is also known as the ‘Akoya pearl oysters’. Lastly, the Keshii pearls in Japan can be formed either in fresh- or salt-water. (Khulsey, 2008) The sea water condition and age could greatly affect whether the oysters would have the male or a female sex organ. (Pacific Island, 2008) For this reason, maintaining the cleanliness of both fresh- and sea-waters is an essential part of pearl farming. When pearl