What is the state gem of Tennessee?
The pearl, taken from mussels in the freshwater rivers of the state, is the official state gem, as designated by Public Chapter 192 of the 91st General Assembly in 1979. Tennessee State Gem River pearls are created by mussels and are found in all colors and various shapes (spherical, pear-shaped, and irregular). Tennessee river pearls are among the most beautiful and durable in the world.
What is the state gemstone of Tennessee?
Tennessee River Pearls Also, the waters became more toxic and pearling became unprofitable. But, Tennessee river pearls are among the most beautiful and durable in the world. It was designated as an official state gem in 1979. Today, pearling exists as a byproduct of shell harvests which supply the cultivated pearl industry of Japan. Tennessee River pearls are among the most beautiful and durable in the world. At Camden, in West Tennessee, these river pearls are collected and crafted into rings, cuff links, stick pins and other jewelry.