Authentic Quahog Pearl from Cape Cod, MA

by Krissy
(Chatham, MA. )

I grew up in Chatham,MA on Cape Cod. A family tradition is to go clamming in the summer. While on our second expedition of the season, we were digging in Stage Harbor by the Cosway. We only harvested about a half bucket that day. We brought them home, rinsed them, heated the grill and started cooking them. Our favorite way to eat them is on the BBQ brushed with garlic butter. As soon as they come on the grill, my family is there to gobble them up. We can't cook them fast enough. I grabbed a few and as I was about to eat one, I noticed a tumor like mass. I poked it with my fork and then picked it out. IT WAS A PEARL! At first everyone was joking and laughing about it, but then we all realized it was a PEARL! I always thought that only oysters made pearls, but after much researched, I found that quahog pearls are real and rare. This pearl is all white and has a few growth lines. It is almost completely round but has a flat button back. It is just beautiful. I am still amazed! I would like to get it appraised and if the price is right, I might sell it. But if not I might have it made into something special.