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Finding a treasure in real life is still a matter of good luck. The Filipino fisherman back in 2016 created a buzz when one of his unexpected discoveries turned out to be the largest natural pearl ever found in the world.
A report from local Palawan news claimed that a fisherman from Puerto Princesa discovered an enormous pearl when the anchor of his boat got stuck in a giant clam.
Fisherman Hides Gigantic $100M Pearl For 10 Years
The Philippines-based fisherman found the pearl during a fishing trip more than 10 years ago. It happened so that the anchor of his boat accidentally caught the massive clam and he had to swim down to dislodge it. The fortunate incident led to the discovery of the world’s largest natural pearl inside the clam.
According to studies, the pearl is valued at more than $100m. It measures 30cm wide, 67cm long, and weighs 34kg (75lb). Interestingly, the fisherman was unaware of the pearl’s true value and kept it hidden under his bed, where it remained for 10 years.
He considered it a good luck charm throughout that time.
Giant Pearl Is A Potential Record-Breaker
The fisherman’s home caught an accidental fire, which forced him to go public with the pearl. Later, he entrusted the safekeeping of the pearl to his aunt, Aileen Cynthia Maggay-Amurao, who worked for the local tourist department.
The fact that the fisherman actually slept on such a valuable item, estimated at $100 million, for years has left the internet in a frenzy.
Aileen informed The Guardian, “So far, based on our research on the web, we cannot find any recorded article about this kind and as big as this size. That’s why he brought it to me, since it’s quite heavy.”
She further added, “The Puerto Princesa City would likely earn another prestigious title and a record breaker for having the world’s biggest natural giant pearl from a giant clam after being certified for its authenticity.”
The Gigantic Pearl Is On Public Display
The fisherman’s aunt offered the pearl to the mayor, Lucilo R Bayon, with her nephew’s permission to serve it as a tourist attraction. It is now on display at the New Green City Hall in Puerto Princesa.
Aileen told The Guardian that she sought help from gemologists to certify the pearl’s value and authenticity. She made a social media call on Facebook which read,”The Puerto Princesa City would likely earn another prestigious title and a record breaker for having the WORLD’S BIGGEST NATURAL GIANT PEARL FROM A GIANT CLAM (34 Kilograms) after being certified for its authenticity.
“Need help from Gemologists! Available for public viewing on August 22, 2016 8am-9am at the Atrium of New Green City Hall, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines. Come and visit Wonderful Puerto Princesa.
Compensation To The Fisherman For The Pearl
For a pearl of such colossal size and valuation, there has been much curiosity about the compensation received by the fisherman.
According to reports, the Philippines-based man has not been compensated for the unexpected yet fortunate find. He was promised to receive a reward from the local government, but the details of any financial payment have not been disclosed.
Moreover, the pearl still legally belongs to the fisherman. Well, he has only agreed to put it on display and has not formally transferred ownership as a public asset for the local community.