In the world of jewelry made from natural stones, there are some types of jewelry that occupy a slightly more special place. Stones that do not just demonstrate style, but tell a certain story. Undoubtedly, pearls, which are a classic symbol of purity and elegance, fall into this group. They have been used in jewelry since ancient times and are one of those stones that simply do not go out of fashion. Below we will discuss what makes pearls and jewelry made from them more special, what types you can find and how to most effectively combine them with accessories and clothing according to style and occasion.
What are natural pearls?
Unlike diamonds, which are formed as a result of extremely high pressure, which changes the structure of carbon into a crystalline one, or druses, which are the result of millions of years of accumulation of various minerals on a rock, pearls are a unique phenomenon in the world of precious or jewelry, natural stones. They are the only ones formed in a living organism, and not as a result of a geological process. Falling into certain types of mussels, microscopic objects (most often grains of sand), cause a process in which the outer body slowly begins to be covered with layers of nacre. Over time, a spherical, teardrop or pear-shaped shape is formed, but most often a small shiny ball that has a soft, pink or white, creamy color, with a soft sheen. Of course, the shape and color of pearls varies greatly, but the above description is applicable to classic pearls.
According to their origin, pearls are divided into three main types:
- Natural pearls – the rarest and most valuable, they are formed in the bodies of wild mussels and are the most difficult to obtain.
- Cultured pearls – are created on special farms with controlled environments for their cultivation, but the process is completely natural. There is debate as to whether there is a big enough difference between “natural” and “cultured” pearls.
- Pressed and other imitations – created in artificial conditions from substitute materials, most often glass with some kind of coating.
The symbolism behind pearls and their place in culture
As one of the most classic stones in jewelry, pearls have been found as part of the fashion styles of different eras and cultures. Historically, they have been laden with a lot of symbolism and are perceived as a bearer of:
- Purity and innocence – especially popular as part of bridal jewelry, both for the bride's jewelry and as elements of her dress;
- Wisdom and maturity – due to the process of shaping pearls, they are associated with patience, and hence with wisdom;
- Femininity and elegance – practically all beautiful women in history who are also part of pop culture have worn pearl jewelry. Cleopatra is the most classic example, but pearl jewelry was a favorite accessory for noble women many millennia before her;
- Wealth and nobility – since pearl mining was traditionally an extremely difficult process (and to some extent still is), only the richest people could afford to wear pearl jewelry;
In addition, in Eastern cultures, and more specifically in the teachings of feng shui, as well as some other energy practices, pearls are one of the symbols of yin energy and a bearer of calm, intuition, and protection.
Types of pearls in jewelry
Freshwater pearls – are characterized by their softer shape and more diverse colors, such as white, pink, and lavender.
Akiha pearls – most often of Japanese origin, they are more spherical in shape and have a characteristically rich shine.
Baroque pearls – asymmetrical, they are the ideal element for creating a unique and unrepeatable piece of jewelry.
Combination of pearl with natural stone – it is common to use pearls with natural formations such as moonstone or quartz. Typical of these designs are their ethereal nature and a good balance of shapes and colors.
Where is it appropriate to wear pearls?
Deviating from the historical norm, pearls today are far from being a jewelry stone that is exclusive to strictly formal occasions. They can be part of:
- Everyday elegance – a clean, thin bracelet with one or several pearls or a discreet necklace with one pearl;
- Boho chic – artistic combination of pearls with leather, textiles, other stones, metal elements;
- Business look – pearl earrings or a simple pearl ring;
- Evening classic – a multi-row necklace of light pearls combined with a dark evening dress;
Tip: optimize your look by combining clean pearls and jewelry made from natural materials to showcase your innate sophistication.
Pearls in handmade jewelry
The origin of pearls gives them a soul that other natural stones do not have. Born in a living being, they have a uniqueness and individuality that distinguishes them from all other jewelry elements. This allows pearls to be effectively combined with other natural stones such as rose quartz, hematite, agate. Jewelry combining pearls with silver or silver elements is also extremely beautiful and infinitely stylish.
Handmade pearl jewelry is not much more than an accessory or even a fashion statement. It is a true experience for the wearer, as well as the people around them. A small and exquisite piece of nature woven into a beautiful necklace, bracelet, earrings or ring.
What more can we say?
Pearl is a natural stone with character and charm. Delicate, elegant, feminine. Pearl jewelry is a convenient way to escape the depersonalization of mass fashion and a message of individuality to send to the world around you.
Find your jewel from our collection proposals with pearl elements.
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