What type of cultured pearls are shaped and textured like rice grains?

Rice pearls are specifically characterized by their elongated shape and unique texture that resembles grains of rice. This distinctive appearance arises from the way they are formed. Cultured pearls are created when an irritant, such as a piece of mantle tissue, is inserted into an oyster or mollusk, which then secretes layers of nacre around the irritant. In the case of rice pearls, the formation process results in a tapered, elongated shape that captures the essence of rice grains, setting them apart from other pearl types.

Other types of pearls, such as baroque pearls, are known for their irregular shapes and unique textures, while coin pearls are flat and round, resembling coins. Abalone pearls, on the other hand, are sourced from abalone mollusks and are renowned for their vibrant colors and unique patterns. Each of these types offers distinct characteristics that differ from the smooth, elongated shape of rice pearls, highlighting the special nature of rice pearls in the wide variety of cultured pearls available.