About: Pearl

Pearls are a highly-prized, precious gems known for their unique incandescent sheen and have captivated humans for millennia. They grow within the mollusk family of shellfish when theres a build-up of an irridescent substance they produce called nacre in such a way that it hardens and forms into a 3-dimensional bead. The mollusk family of shellfish includes Oysters, Clams, and Mussels. Although round is the most popular shape and off-white is the most well-known color, pearls can exhibit diverse physical characteristics including a variety of colors (white, black, pink, gold); shapes (round, baroque); and sizes. Pearls can develop in either freshwater or saltwater, and cultured pearls are among the key types. Qualities such as rarity of shape or color can dramatically influence their value. Historically, pearls have been symbols of wealth, purity, and wisdom, often adorning royalty and nobility. From Qing Dynasty Emperor Yongzheng (China) and Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala (India) to Queen Cleopatra (Egypt) and Queen Elizabeth (England), pearls have been worn by many wealthy and influential figures throughout history. Some ancient cultures ascribed mystical properties to pearls, believing them to possess healing powers as well as the ability to protect the wearer by warding off evil. Today, pearls continue to be cherished as timeless symbols of elegance, beauty and sophistication.

See Also: Mother Of Pearl