Pearls of Wisdom
Perhaps one of the most beloved and well-known gems, pearls are the classic jewelry staple everyone needs in their jewelry collection. They’re like your favorite pair of jeans! In fact, you can wear them with jeans or with the fanciest evening gown. In the wise words of Jackie O, “Pearls are always appropriate!”
Who do you know that loves pearls? Your grandma? Your bestie? You? Pearls have been a fashion staple for centuries and are loved by many. With their lustrous shine and beautiful colors, you really can’t go wrong! Even some of our favorite celebrities swear by their pearls, like Taylor Swift and Harry Styles!
These unique gemstones have a story like no other because frankly, they aren’t like any other gem out there! Follow along with us as we share the pearls of wisdom learned from these lustrous beauties, diving deep into their gem facts, folklore, and care tips.
How do pearls form?
Unlike other gems that form in the earth, pearls are unique because they form in the waters of our lakes and oceans! It all begins when an irritant, such as a grain of sand, enters the body of an oyster or a freshwater mollusk. As a defense against the irritant, the oyster or mollusk produces nacre (the shiny iridescent substance). Layers of nacre coat the irritant, forming the pearl!
Pearl History
Pearls have been sought after for thousands of years by people from every culture and region of the world. Fun fact: Japanese pearl hunters have been diving for these spherical treasures without breathing equipment for around 2000 years. How cool is that?! According to GIA, “People have coveted natural pearls as symbols of wealth and status for thousands of years. A Chinese historian recorded the oldest written mention of natural pearls in 2206 BC. As the centuries progressed toward modern times, desire for natural pearls remained strong. Members of royal families as well as wealthy citizens in Asia, Europe, and elsewhere treasured natural pearls and passed them from generation to generation.”
The first cultured pearls came about in China and Japan in the 20th century. Later, between 1930 and 1980 pearl production diversified and became popular in countries around the globe. Now you will find that pearls aren’t limited to the rich, royal, and famous. From a freshwater pearl bracelet to a black pearl ring to an Akoya pearl necklace, beautiful pieces are readily available at all price points making pearl jewelry easier than ever to add to your collection!
Pearl Lore
Like your favorite movie or book character, pearls come with an interesting back story. Ancient Japanese folklore tells of pearls formed from the tears of mythical mermaids. Tales of dragons carrying pearls in their mouths and brave warriors slaying the dragons to collect the pearls are a favorite among Chinese stories. In the Hindu culture, legends of pearls forming from dewdrops fallen from the moon are part of their rich history.
In Western cultures, pearls represent purity, beauty, and success. June’s birthstone is a pearl, so if you’re a June baby, pearls may bring you that same purity, beauty, and success. If you are approaching your 3rd or 30th wedding anniversary, pearls are the traditional gift to give and FORGE would love to have you stop by our Provo, UT store or visit our online shop to pick out a gift for that special someone!
Pearl Characteristics
Pearls are commonly white and cream colored, but they also come in a wide assortment of colors! You can find black, grey, yellow, orange, pink, purple, green, and blue pearls. So yes, there is a color of pearl for every outfit in your closet!
Pearls are very soft, only a 2.5-3 on the Mohs hardness scale and they require special care (more on that later).
Pearls come in a variety of shapes and grades. Spherical pearls are highly sought after for high end pearl strands, while freshwater pearls can offer fun and organic shapes perfect for unique jewelry pieces.
The quality of a pearl is determined by its luster, surface quality, shape, color, nacre thickness, and size.
How to care for your pearls
High quality pearls are durable, but they are a porous gem which means they require some special care in order to keep them in tip-top shape.
Pearl Care Tip 1: While not in use, pearls should be stored in a soft cloth, pouch, or jewelry box away from other objects to prevent surface scratches. Check out our darling and dainty jewelry boxes, perfect for keeping your pearls safe.
Pearl Care Tip 2: Avoid letting your pearls come into contact with chemicals, cosmetics, perfume, and hairspray. These substances can and will damage your precious pearls (and we don’t want that to happen)! Our rule of thumb… jewelry should be the last thing you put on in the morning and the first thing you take off at night.
Pearl Care Tip 3: Store your pearls where they get air flow. Air-tight containers will dehydrate them! Remember that pearls were formed in water and they need at a little moisture to maintain a strong and shiny presence.
Pearl Care Tip 4: To clean your pearls, use warm mild soapy water and leave them to dry on a soft cloth. You can also purchase this foam jewelry cleaner from us! It’s specially formulated to be gentle enough for your precious pearls and the perfect travel companion when you’re adventuring.
Now you are schooled with many pearls of wisdom! They truly are an amazing gem. If you find yourself in the market for adding pearls to your collection, stop by our showroom in Provo, Utah or shop our in-stock jewelry online. We have pearl jewelry available at all different price points and styles! You can check out some of my favorite pearl earrings here. They’re beautiful, dainty, and go with everything. I can’t wait to see you rocking your pearls! See you soon!
