Is a pearl a rock??

Question

I have a book called 1000 facts on rocks and minerals. and for some reason pearls are in here. Pearls are usually caused by a grain of sand in an oyster...and a grain of sand is a rock...but oysters cant make rocks.....im confused

Answer 1

NO...

Answer 2

Just wanted to clarify that the "grain of salt in a shell" turning into a pearl is a myth.  If you read the link someone sent you pearls you will learn that the irritant inside the clam must be organic.  A grain of salt is inorganic.

A pearl is not a rock!

Answer 3

no I dont think oysters create rocks... just lava creates rocks

Answer 4

By strict definition, no.  

A rock is composed of minerals, and one of the criteria for minerals is that they are inorganic.

Answer 5

Nope, its created by oyster's, and from memory oyster's cant make rocks.

Answer 6

no, it's formed inside of shells, under the sea.

Answer 7

a pearl is not a rock... it comes from the oysters... it has substances of carbon in it...

Answer 8

A pearl is not a rock. It is made when a clam's shell gets clogged with dirt and salt. the dirt and salt mix together and sit on the clam's mouth, turning to a pearl. It is a "rock" in the sense that it is used in rings and jewelery, though. :) Happy to help!

Answer 9

Here's your answer:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl

Answer 10

A pearl is formed when an irritant, usually a grain of sand, gets into the oyster's shell.  The oyster covers the irritant with a protective material (calcium carbonate).  So, not really. :)