Pearls are a Girls Best Friend?

  Over the weekend I was reading Beauty Biz magazine, and came across an interesting article about the use of pearls in cosmetic products.  Obviously, using a gemstone that is synonymous with lustre, glamour, and beauty is a great way to market a product, but what is the science behind the use of pearl in these products?

  Pearls are created inside a mollusk with the addition of an irritant, and are the only gemstones to be created within a living animal.  Historically, they have had many therapeutic uses, ranging from indigestion to longevity of life.  They are composed of calcium carbonate and a protein called conchilion.
  Calcium Carbonate: commonly used in cosmetic products, such as toothpaste (it is abrasive), as a calming agent (it is basic, neutralizing inflammation), and as a buffering agent.
  Conchilion: unique protein, which, similar to calcium carbonate, is basic.  The main components of this protein are the amino acids (building blocks of life) glycine, valine, leucine, lysine, and arginine.  All of the components have their unique properties and purposes, but the following three seem to have the most profound roles...
        Lysine: required for the formation of collagen
        Valine: acts as a moisturizer
        Glycine: reduces oxidative damage, and is required for protein synthesis

  I'm looking forward to trying some products synthesized with the components of pearls.  In addition to the therapeutic properties of the components, crushed pearl also adds lustre and can diminish imperfections on the surface of the skin.
  Products containing pearl:  Lancome La Laque Fever Lipshine Collection, Benefit Girl Meets Pearl Liquid Pearl for Face, La Mer The Illuminating Powder. 



Conchilion Protein