Just stunning - Good news the 6mm & 8mm grey pearl beads are a good match Man made beads made from oyster shells (so similar material as real pearls). South sea shell beads are slightly heavier than pearl beads. They are made by a complex process of combine crushed shell in the perfect shape then dipping them in a solution either containing ground iridescent fish scales or real pearl powder which coats them in a lustrous finish. South sea shell beads are durable and will keep their colour.