A glimpse at the history of pearl

Human probably discovered pearl while looking for food at the seashore. The existence of pearls was first documented on 2200 B.C. Enchantment and immaculate shape made them a cherished symbol of elegance for ancient and modern cultures. There are countless of references regarding pearls that can be found in the religions and mythology of cultures from the earliest times. The ancient Egyptians treasured pearls so much that they were buried with them. Cleopatra was reportedly dissolved a single pearl in a glass of wine and drank it in order to win a wager with Mark Antony that she could consume the wealth of an entire nation in just one meal.

Meanwhile in ancient Rome, pearls were considered as the ultimate symbol of wealth and social standing. The Greeks held the pearl in high esteem for both its unrivaled beauty and its association with love and marriage. During the Dark Ages, while fair maidens of nobility cherished delicate pearl necklaces, gallant knights often wore them to battle. They believed the magic of these lustrous gems would protect them from harm. The Renaissance saw the royal courts of Europe awash in pearls. Pearls had such an outstanding reputation therefore numerous European countries actually made a law to forbid commoners to wear them.

Queen Elisabeth I used to wear heavy strands of pearls constantly. She was the vain owner of magnificent gowns embroidered with a treasure of 3000 pearls!

Until the early 1900's, natural pearls were only accessible to the rich and famous. And in 1916, a famous French jeweler Jacques Cartier bought his landmark store on New York's famous Fifth Avenue by trading two pearl necklaces! Imagine that!

Today, however, pearls are available and affordable for all of us to enjoy.