Big Pink Pearl

BIG PINK PEARL

Discovered in 1990, the Big Pink Pearl is known to be the largest, natural abalone pearl in the world.

The Big Pink Pearl was discovered at Salt Point State Park in Petaluma, California by diver Wesley Rankin in 1990. The pearl once held the Guinness Book of World Records title as 'Largest Abalone Pearl' in the world, weighing 470 carats. A pearl, discovered by Dat Vi Truong, in Mendocino, California in 2010 now holds this record, weighing 718.5 carats.

While the exact origin of the 'Big Pink' abalone pearl is unknown, scientists believe the pearl is a product of either the Red Abalone species 'Haliotis Rufescens' or the Pink Abalone species 'Haliotis Corrugata.' These oysters are most frequently found in California, New Zealand and Australia. Abalone oysters produce some of the most beautiful pearls, exceptional in color, brilliance, luster and coated with thick nacreous layers.

The Big Pink Pearl remains in Rankin's possession today and in 1991 was valued at $4.7 million. Rankin is considered the largest abalone dealer in the world.