Cultured pearls are genuine pearls that are formed with human intervention. 

Unlike wild natural pearls, these pearls are created through a scientific, meticulously planned, and orderly process. 

A small irritant, such as a tiny bead or a piece of tissue, is carefully inserted into a living mollusk, commonly referred to as the "mother shell." This stimulates the mother shell to secrete nacre, which, over a period of time (for example, several years), builds up in layers to gradually form a pearl. 

This is the cultivation process of cultured pearls. Cultured pearls can be grown in both saltwater and freshwater environments, and they can develop into the desired sizes, colors, and qualities according to the plans of the cultivators. 

Pearl cultivation technology was developed in the early 20th century. The advent and development of this technology have made it easier for people to obtain high-quality pearls compared to before, while also protecting the overexploited wild oyster populations. 

Today, cultured pearls account for over 99% of all pearls in the jewelry market, including varieties such as freshwater pearls, Akoya pearls, Tahitian pearls, and South Sea pearls.