Question about older akoya strands

[Sea Urchin]

The smaller beads by the clasp, in the older graduated akoya strands, do they really tend to be a bit elongated or is it just a camera thing? If they are, why? I mean, I can see the thread getting stetched, but the pearls? Anyone know?

 

[pattye]

Seem to recall something about the pearls possibly getting elongated as the nacre wears away around the center~

 

[Sea Urchin]

Ah, that make sense. Thank you, Pattye.

 

[GemGeek]

She's right. It's called "barreling".

 

[pattye]

Thank you,GG!