Ohrid's pearls

Ohrid's pearls are natural freshwater pearls formed in the waters of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes. These pearls develop inside freshwater mussels native to the lake, creating unique, irregularly shaped gems prized for their natural beauty and rarity. Their formation involves the mussel's response to irritation, which produces layers of nacre— the substance that gives pearls their luster. Ohrid pearls have a long-standing tradition and are valued for their authentic quality, making them sought-after both locally and internationally as natural jewelry pieces.