Pearl farming is the process of cultivating pearls from oysters or other mollusks. Farmers create a controlled environment in which they can insert a small irritant, like a bead, into the oyster. This stimulates the oyster to produce layers of nacre, the substance that forms pearls, over time. The farming process typically takes several years, depending on the type of pearl being cultivated. Once the pearls are ready, they are harvested, cleaned, and sorted based on size, shape, and quality. Pearl farming is an important industry in regions like Japan and China, where it contributes to local economies.