history of pearls

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, several Japanese researchers discovered a method of producing pearls artificially. Kokichi Mikimoto is credited with perfecting the technique. His skills led to the artificially stimulated development of round pearls in oysters. In 1916, Mr. Mikimoto received a patent for his invention. His discovery opened the gates to the pearl industry. Freshwater pearl farms began in Lake Biwa, Japan at the end of the 1920's.  Unfortunately, pollution and illness have greatly reduced the Japanese saltwater farms in recent years. Progress is being made in restoring the ecosystems and breeding resistant mollusks, so we should see a return of Japanese pearls to a prominent place in the market in the future. At present, however, the premier source is China.