3. Theological alignment of a given pearl group (i.e. presiding deity)
While little is seen to directly tie the Whale to a particular Hindu deity, it is of interest that Herman Melville, the English author of Moby Dick, therein describes the Whale as an avatar of Lord Vishnu.
4. Cosmological Inherents (i.e. gem of Heaven, Underworld)
Clearly a terrestrial gem.
5. Religious or cultural significance of given pearl variety.
Unknown at present beyond conjecture of its symbolic reference to Lord Vishnu.
6. Cross-references noted within Varahamihira.
Ch. 81 -
"
The pearls from whales resemble a fish's eye, are large, pure, and of great value. "
"
The pearls from... whales... ought not to be perforated and as they possess inestimable virtues or excellences, no price has been fixed for them by the authorities. "
7. Ritual handling of the artifact.
Unknown.
8. Stipulations regarding ownership.
Unknown.
9. Historical references.
Less than others.
10. State of scientific analysis.
None has taken place that we are aware of.
11. Geographical origin.
Indonesian archipelago is our only known source of these artifacts.
12. Scientific considerations for full overview
We consider these similar to the fish pearls, although the whales eat diatoms directly from the bottom of the food chain.
13. Archaeologist review.
No comment.
14. Hindu intelligence.
Appreciated, but not a major focal point.
It is noted that there is some contention variously on whether there are Eight or Nine of the Sacred Pearls. The Garuda Purana itself describes "eight species of pearls described by the connoisseurs of gems" , however, the list of eight pearls does not include the Oyster Pearl which is stated early in the chapter to be "usually included in this category if gems." However, both Fish Pearls and Whale Pearls are indeed described in The Garuda Purana. The conclusion here is that there are 8 Sacred Pearls known by connoisseurs, 1 that is Sacred but ubiquitous (Oyster.) We also know of no reference within the Puranas or Vedas describing the existience of a sacred "tree pearl".
15. Gemological opinion.
None observed.
16. Artist overview.
No comment.
17. Anecdotal reports.
These gems feel very calming to some observers.
18. Personal observances.
None at present.
19. Social response of observers.
Interest, but not fixation.
20. Cross-cultural references.
None at present.
21. Miscellaneous subtleties.
None observed at this time, although the Whale Pearls definitely have an expansive feel and are bi-level in an almost Tao Yin/Yang formation.
22. Relative Scarcity of pearl.
Very scarce.
23. Known Placements.
None.
24. Relative Valuation Criteria.
"Inestimable".
25. Indicated ownership benefits.
Only as described above.
26. Conjecture on what gives each pearl a Sacred property.
A certain vastness and power seem to accompany observers noted perception of the Whale Pearls.
27. Action plan for further research.
Non-invasive testing for silica would partially confirm bezoar theory, although microscopic investigation for salt patterns and chemical testing may be more telling.
28. Biological and Zoological review.
The Whale Pearls appear to the biologist as highly bezoar in origin, noting a salt-like textures on one surface that was created internally to protect an irritation in much the same manner as an Oyster Pearl. She noted that there was a highly crystalline structure to the salt-like side, and recommended research into such formations.
29. Final determinants.
The Whale Pearls, described in Sri Garuda Purana, appear to be a natural product of an organic process in whale metabolism.
30. Conclusions
Specimens of this class of artifact will be offered for placement, noting their scarcity and degree of validation as one of The Sacred Pearls.