The pearl. This small round object is the ultimate gem within the jewelry community and has a rich history. It's the only gemstone that comes from a living creature. In this blog we dive into more fun facts, the history, formation and meaning of pearls.
Fun Facts About Pearls
1. Pearls are the only gemstone to come from a living creature
All gemstones, like amethyst or rose quartz, come from the earth's crust. Pearls however come from oysters.
2. Natural pearls are rare
Most of the pearls you see on the market are cultivated in labs. That's because wild oysters don't always contain pearls and their population are affected by overfishing. Cultivated pearls are a more sustainable solution. It offers more symmetrical and affordable pearls, without overfishing to gain rare and expensive pearls.
3. The biggest natural pearl is valued at $100 million.
In 2006, a fisherman from the Philippines discovered a 66cm long pearl off the coast of the Palawan Island. He kept it under his bed for good fortune. Unfortunately his home burned down, but the 34kg pearl survived. Officials valued it at $100 million.
The History and Origin of Pearls
Where do I start? There are many stories about pearls, as they're the most popular gemstone throughout human history. In ancient times they were incorporated in talismans and are mentioned in mythology. Here are some examples:
In the literature of Hinduism the pearl is often associated with Krishna, the most popular Hindu deity. According to legend, Krishna discovered the first pearl, retrieving it from the depths of the sea to adorn his daughter Pandaïa on her wedding day.
In ancient Chinese literature, some writers believed that pearls orgininated in the brain of the mythical dragon, while others noted their abundance during the reign of illustrious emperors.
For more about the history of pearls, I refer you to "The Book of the Pearl" by George Frederick Kunz and Charles Hugh Stevenson
Formation
Pearls are created by oysters and freshwater mussels. They're the results of their natural defence against unwelcome materials entering their shell, such as parasites. Pearls are made of nacre, the same material as the shell.
Types of Pearls
Freshwater Pearl - This is the most well-known type of pearl and is widely available. Because their widely cultivated, they're also the most affordable option of all. 99% of freshwater pearls come from natural and man-made waters in China. Most of these pearls are made by inserting 'donor mantle tissue', which degrades as the pearl grows, leaving a pearl with solid crystalline nacre. It adds to the overall durability of freshwater pearls.
Akoya Pearl - This saltwater pearl is perfectly round and has a bright, shiny luster. They're cultivated in the Pinctada fucata martensii saltwater oyster in Japan, China and Vietnam.
Tahitian Pearl - This black saltwater pearl are farmed in the Pinctada margaritifera saltwater oyster in French Polynesia. The colors vary in different shades of black/grey and are naturally colored, thus without treatment.
South Sea Pearl - This is the most luxurious pearl on the market. The "Queen of Pearls" are cultivated in the Pinctada maxima saltwater oyster. Only wild oysters are bred to grow the farm's population and they're released back into the ocean afterwards. They're farmed in Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia.
Sea of Cortez Pearl - This is the most rare pearl and is cultured in the "Perlas del Mal de Cortez Farm" in Guyamas, Mexico. They're the only farm who produce this pearl, around 4,000 a year.
The Meaning of Pearls
The rich history of the pearl shows that it's linked with a spectrum of symbolism, meaning and stories. So to say that there is one meaning would be inconsiderate of the many stories from different cultures. Like many gemstones, the pearl is historically associated with protection, purity and wisdom. Because of its round shape and origin, it's also associated with the moon and the sea. And not to forget, pearls are also linked to wealth and status, because they have been a rare gem for most of human history.
Pearls in Jewelry
What is the world of jewelry without pearls? Pearls are the most used gemstone in jewelry, often in fine and luxurious jewelry. Though in recent times, affordable pearl jewelry is widely available, thanks to oyster farms. In Western culture, pearls are often worn by the bride on her wedding day. Generally, pearls are associated with femininity, but nowadays you'll see more men and masculine people wear pearl jewelry, like choker necklaces.
