In 1987, ICAR-CIFA initiated research on the culture and production of freshwater pearls and since then it has been working towards the development of the technology of producing pearls in freshwater environments. Though the breeding protocol for seed production of Lamellidens marginalis is under progress, the culture practice for pearl production has already been standardised.

This article describes the culture practices used for freshwater pearl farming in India, including site selection, implant techniques, post-operative care and growout conditions. Challenges and future prospects of the industry are also discussed.