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LOOKING AFTER OYSTERS
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The shells which have been collected and transferred to the pearl farm are placed in baskets or panels which are attached to long lines connected to the floating rafts. The line is dropped down into the ocean with the oyster securely inside the basket, where they remain until they become operated on for seeding. Seeding takes place when the temperatures become stable of which is usually around July. The oysters are very sensitive and can easily die if handled during changing temperatures. They are therefore not touched, if possible, in May or September.
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| The oyster can produce more than one pearl in it's lifetime by taking good care of it. Regular cleaning of the shells to remove seaweed results in better pearls plus makes them easier to handle. The cleaning is done by a machine which uses water jets and brushes to clean off any seaweed or other growth from the outside of the oyster shell. It may also be cleaned using a tool similar to an axe. |
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It is most important to regularly turn the oyster shells through 180 degrees, so that the nacre of the developing pearl inside the oyster, will be evenly distributed around the nucleus. The oysters need very tender loving care so as to be productive when harvested.
