3D microscopic reconstruction of pearls using combined optical microscopy and photogrammetry

In this study, we introduce an affordable and accessible method that combines optical microscopy and photogrammetry to reconstruct 3D models of Tahitian pearls. We present a novel device designed for acquiring microscopic images around a sphere using translational displacement stages and outline our method for reconstructing these images. We successfully created 3D models of two individual pearl rings, each representing 6.3% of the pearl’s surface. Additionally, we generated a combined model representing 10.3% of the pearl’s surface. This showcases the potential for reconstructing entire pearls with appropriate instrumentation. We emphasize that our approach extends beyond pearls and spherical objects and can be adapted for various object types using appropriate acquisition devices. We provide a proof of concept demonstrating the feasibility of 3D photogrammetry using optical microscopy. Consequently, our method offers a practical and cost-effective alternative for generating 3D models at a microscopic scale, particularly when detailed internal structure information is unnecessary.