June 2025
The Pearl
Pearls, often referred to as “the queen of gems and the gem of queens,” hold a prominent place in various cultures due to their rarity, beauty and timeless elegance. To this day pearls have remained an emblem of sophistication and social status. They have been worn by monarchs and depicted in countless works of art. In an era where appearance was synonymous with influence, possessing pearl jewelry reflected one’s place in society and military status.
Archaeological excavations have unveiled delicate pearl ornaments within burial sites, indicating their importance in rituals and as heirlooms passed down through generations.
Many legends attribute mystical qualities to these gems found in the depths of the sea.
In Ancient China pearl hunting expeditions developed into endeavors supported by emperors seeking symbols of purity and wisdom. Chinese folklore describes pearls as teardrops shed by mythical dragons.
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In Egypt, these droplets of “hardened light” were eagerly sought after by pharaohs and nobility in the belief that they possessed protective properties against evil spirits.
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In Hindu Culture pearls are Synonymous with divine truth and are associated with links to the moon.
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In Victorian times, pearl jewelry experienced a shift toward more sentimental aspects. Placed into high fashion items, pearls came to influence trends that emphasized personal keepsakes. During this period craftsmen focused on integrating pearls into intricate brooches, lockets, and hairpieces often imbued with romantic symbolism or connections to mourning rituals.
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The most valuable pearls are perfectly round and smooth and occur spontaneously in the wild but are extremely rare. They are referred to as natural pearls. Cultured or farmed pearls from pearl oysters and freshwater mussels make up the majority of those sold today. Pearls have been harvested and cultivated primarily for use in jewelry but in the past were also used to adorn clothing, used in medicine, paint formulations and have been crushed and used in cosmetics.
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The size, shape, color, quality of surface, orient, and luster determine their value. The most valuable pearls have a metallic, highly reflective luster. X-ray examination is required to positively verify natural pearls found today.
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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Very few matched strands of natural pearls exist. Natural pearling is confined mostly to the Persian Gulf, in seas off Bahrain. Australia also has one of the world's last remaining fleets of pearl diving ships. Australian pearl divers dive for South Sea pearls which are the largest and rarest making them the most valuable.
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​​​​​Pearl is the birthstone of June.
In our shop we source and use many pearls, not only for their monetary value, but for their historical and intriguing qualities.
​​​​​​​​If you have an heirloom pearl, or a pearl that you might like us to create a setting for, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Specialty and custom orders are what we do best!
