The Chinese call them yemengzhu or legendary luminous pearls. These are not true pearls but spheres of a rare kind of glow-in-the-dark fluorite, a mineral which is sometimes used in jewelry making. The Chinese believe good luck and fortune will come to those who touch these legendary luminous pearls.
This record breaking pearl, currently being exhibited in Hainan province, weighs 6 tonnes and is about 1.6m high. It took 3 years to grind the specimen into a large round ball. It has been valued at 2.2 billion yuan or $331 million. Any takers?
Legendary Luminous Pearls
World's Largest Glow-in-the-Dark Pearl is Valued at $331 Million
Trend Themes
1. Glow-in-the-dark Jewelry - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create a line of jewelry using glow-in-the-dark fluorite for a unique and eye-catching aesthetic.
2. Luminous Gemstone Market - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop new techniques and technologies to create and market rare glow-in-the-dark gemstones.
3. Fortune Symbolism - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Design and produce products or services that incorporate symbolism of good luck and fortune, catering to cultural beliefs and traditions.
Industry Implications
1. Jewelry Making - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introduce innovative techniques and materials into the jewelry making industry, such as glow-in-the-dark fluorite, to create unique and trendy pieces.
2. Gemstone Mining and Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore and utilize new methods for mining and manufacturing rare gemstones like fluorite for use in jewelry and other industries.
3. Cultural and Superstitious Products - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop a range of products or services that tap into cultural beliefs and superstitions, providing customers with items that are viewed as lucky or auspicious.