seed pearl

American  

noun

1. a pearl weighing less than ¼ grain.

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seed pearl British  

noun

1. a tiny pearl weighing less than a quarter of a grain

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Etymology

Origin of seed pearl

First recorded in 1545–55

Example Sentences

Rubies, sapphires, emeralds and seed pearls are peppered through the design.

From New York Times

On display in the new exhibition is a scaled-down replica of the Crown Jewels, inset with real diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds and seed pearls.

From BBC

Encrusted with thousands of seed pearls, sequins and crystals, the gown's design was the last of eight options put to the Queen by British couturier Sir Norman.

From BBC

Customs impounded 10,000 seed pearls from the U.S., and journalists were assured that the origins of the silk produced in Kent and woven in Essex were worms from “nationalist” China rather than “enemy” Japan.

From Seattle Times

It is replete with seed pearls and mushroom pleats.

From New York Times