A fisherman in the Philippines has revealed what is believed to be one of the largest natural pearls ever found, an extraordinary gem he kept hidden under his bed for a decade without knowing its true value. The enormous pearl weighs an astonishing 75 pounds (34 kilograms) and has been valued by some gemologists at over $100 million.
The unnamed fisherman from the Palawan province found the pearl back in 2006 when his boat’s anchor became snagged on a giant clam during a storm. He swam down to free the anchor, and in the process, dislodged the enormous clam. Inside, he discovered the colossal pearl.
Unaware of its immense value, the fisherman considered the pearl a good luck charm and stored it in a bag under his bed. He would reportedly rub the pearl before heading out to sea, believing it would bring him a bountiful catch. The pearl remained a secret until a fire forced him to move, at which point he brought the heavy object to his aunt, a local tourism officer.
Recognizing the pearl’s immense size and potential significance, his aunt, Aileen Cynthia Maggay-Amurao, convinced her nephew to present it to the Puerto Princesa City government. The pearl is now on public display at the New Green City Hall in Puerto Princesa. While its authenticity is still being officially certified by international gemological institutions, its unique size and origin have already captivated the world, placing a new spotlight on the rich marine treasures of the Philippines.
