Many thanks to Brendan Borrell of Hakai Magazine for sharing an insightful story. Oysters are natural storytellers.
P.J.Joseph's Weblog On Colored Stones, Diamonds, Gem Identification, Synthetics, Treatments, Imitations, Pearls, Organic Gems, Gem And Jewelry Enterprises, Gem Markets, Watches, Gem History, Books, Comics, Cryptocurrency, Designs, Films, Flowers, Wine, Tea, Coffee, Chocolate, Graphic Novels, New Business Models, Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Energy, Education, Environment, Music, Art, Commodities, Travel, Photography, Antiques, Random Thoughts, and Things He Like.
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Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Thursday, November 04, 2021
Ambergris
Mark Wilding's story on ambergris was fascinating. Ambergris is one of the world's unlikeliest commodities. The waxy substance formed in the gut of around one in 100 sperm whales is frequently described as vomit, but is almost certainly expelled from the other end of the animal. There is an important factor in the ambergris appeal-----mystery. And wherever there is mystery around a commodity, misinformation, suspicion, and secrecy often follow. Along the way, you will meet half-bright half-idiots of all hues. Must read.