Pearls. These beautiful gems are formed inside living creatures, setting them apart from minerals that are mined from the earth. This unique origin and their long history have given pearls a special place in our hearts and imaginations.
This article is here to explore the symbolism of pearls, how they’ve been used and understood across cultures, and why they’ve been so prized throughout history.
We’ll dive into how pearls are formed, their historical significance, the different meanings they’ve held in various cultures, their purported metaphysical properties, their role in fashion, and how to care for these delicate treasures.
Pearls throughout history
Pearls have been prized across civilizations for thousands of years.
Pearls in ancient cultures
Ancient Sumerians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all treasured pearls, and they were often incorporated into jewelry designs. In ancient Rome, pearls were associated with wealth and luxury, and archaeological finds have revealed stunning examples of pearl jewelry from that era.
So valued were pearls in ancient Rome that laws were passed restricting their use to the upper classes.
In ancient Greece, pearls were associated with love and marriage, and the lustrous gems were thought to ensure marital bliss.
Pearls in mythology and religion
The moon and pearls have been linked across cultures. In Japanese folklore, pearls are said to be the tears of water nymphs. The Bible mentions pearls in Matthew 7:6, “casting pearls before swine,” suggesting that something precious should not be wasted on those who don’t understand its value.
And in Polynesian legends, the god Lono is said to have opened the heavens to create black pearls, gems that are still highly sought after today.
How pearls are formed
Pearls can be formed in nature or grown in a pearl farm. Here’s a little more about how each type of pearl is formed.
Natural vs. cultured pearls
Natural pearls are formed when a tiny irritant makes its way inside an oyster, mussel, or clam. The mollusk then begins to coat the irritant with layers of nacre, the same substance that makes up the shell.
Because they’re so rare, natural pearls can be quite expensive.
Cultured pearls are grown on pearl farms. Pearl farmers implant a tiny bead into the mollusk and then return the mollusk to the water. Over time, the mollusk coats the bead with nacre.
Cultured pearls are much more common and more affordable than natural pearls.
Properties of pearls
When experts examine pearls, they consider:
- Luster
- Surface quality
- Shape
- Size
- Color
- Nacre thickness
- Overtone
There are several types of cultured pearls, including:
- Akoya (2-10 mm)
- Tahitian (8-15 mm)
- South Sea (10-20 mm)
- Freshwater
Pearl symbolism and metaphysical properties
Pearls are more than pretty baubles: they’re steeped in symbolism and lore. They’re associated with some pretty lofty qualities, like purity, innocence, wisdom, wealth, and status. Because they come from the sea, they’re linked to the moon and water in many cultures.
Many believe that wearing pearls can bring calmness, elegance, and even good fortune. Because of their connection to the moon and the ocean, they’re often linked to feminine qualities and emotional balance.
Pearls have also played a spiritual role for centuries. In some ancient Asian cultures, pearls were placed in the mouths of the deceased as part of burial traditions and soul mythology, perhaps as a symbol of wealth or status that could be carried into the afterlife.
Pearls as birthstones
If you were born in June, you can count the pearl as one of your birthstones. The pearl is thought to represent purity, generosity, integrity, and loyalty. Some spiritualists believe that wearing pearls can help you get in touch with your inner wisdom. In fact, the pearl is seen as a metaphor for the spiritual journey itself: a symbol of transformation and growth from humble beginnings into something beautiful and luminous.
Cultural and color symbolism of pearls
Pearls are often associated with certain qualities, and those qualities can be amplified by the pearl’s color.
White and black pearls
White pearls are often linked to purity, innocence, and fresh starts. Think of a bride wearing pearls on her wedding day!
Black pearls symbolize strength, mystique, and the ability to overcome adversity. In Polynesian legends, the god Lono gifted black pearls to humans.
Colored pearl significance
Colored pearls add another layer to the symbolism, drawing on the cultural associations of those colors.
- Pink pearls: love, romance, and compassion
- Golden pearls: prosperity, wealth, and good fortune (especially significant in Chinese culture, where gold is linked to dragons)
- Blue pearls: tranquility, peace, and harmony
- Green pearls: balance, growth, and renewal
Pearls in Fashion and Jewelry
Pearls are a classic, elegant choice for just about any occasion. You can dress them up or down, making them a versatile addition to any jewelry collection.
Pearl necklaces are always in style, whether you choose a simple strand or something more elaborate with diamonds or other gemstones. Pearl earrings, rings, and bracelets are also popular. They can add a touch of sophistication to your look.
The beauty of pearls is that they never really go out of style. They’re a timeless investment that you can wear for years to come.
How to care for your pearls
Pearls are delicate, so they need special care to keep them lustrous and beautiful.
- After wearing pearls, gently wipe them with a soft, damp cloth.
- Store your pearls in a soft cloth pouch or a separate section of your jewelry box to protect them from scratches. Don’t store them in plastic bags or in direct sunlight.
- Keep your pearls away from chemicals, cosmetics, hairspray, and perfume. Apply these products before putting on your pearls.
- Have your pearl jewelry restrung by a professional every one to two years. This prevents the string from breaking and keeps your pearls secure.
With a little care, your pearls will stay beautiful for years to come.
Conclusion
Pearls have long been powerful symbols, with different cultures interpreting them in different ways. They’ve been connected to purity, innocence, wisdom, wealth, and matchless beauty. Whether real or faux, pearls have been prized for millennia for their elegance and luster.
Pearls have an enduring appeal, and they never truly go out of style. From royal necklaces to everyday earrings, pearls add a touch of class to whatever you’re wearing.
If you choose to wear pearls, be sure to take good care of them. Store them separately from other jewelry, and wipe them down with a soft cloth after wearing them. With the proper care, your pearls can last for generations, and you can pass them down to someone you love.