What is Pearl?
Pearls are unique among gemstones because they are organic rather than mineral in origin. They are formed inside mollusks and take many years to reach a size that is worth harvesting.
The mollusk, of which oysters are the best-known producers of Pearls, coats a grain of sand, or other irritants, in layers from its own shell to mitigate the irritation.
The layers accumulate until eventually a ball or Pearl is produced.
The Origin: Where Is Pearl Found?
Freshwater Pearls come mainly from China. Saltwater Pearls are sourced off the coast of Japan, French Polynesia, and Australia.
The History & Lore of Pearl
Pearls have many myths and a large body of folklore attached to them.
They were considered to be mystical and other-worldly by many civilizations and they have a special place in the Chinese practice of Feng Shui.
Pearls have long been associated with the Moon and the various Moon goddesses in folklore, doubtless because of their association with the oceans, and also the resemblance they bear to the moon.
The Ancient Egyptians prized Pearls so much that they buried them with their Pharaohs as grave goods.
Legend has it that Cleopatra once dissolved her Pearl Earrings in a glass of wine to show her lover, Mark Antony, that she could swallow the wealth of an entire population in one go.
A Persian legend says that these beautiful gems were the result of rainbows touching the Earth after a storm.
Any imperfections found in Pearls were attributed to the actions of thunder and lightning.
Ancient Japanese stories say that earls were the tears of mermaids made real and that Angels, Nymphs, and other mythological beings produced Pearls whenever they wept in pity for humankind.
Oro, the god of peace and fertility in Tahitian myth, offered the black Pearl inside a magical oyster to the princess Bora Bora as a symbol of his love.
To do this, he visited the earth on a rainbow.
In Ancient China, black pearls were said to be formed within the head of a dragon.
When the pearls were large enough, they were lodged between the dragon’s teeth, and only warriors brave enough to slay the dragon could collect them.
Description of Pearl
Pearls can be found in freshwater or saltwater varieties.
Cultured pearls are “farmed” under controlled conditions in mollusk beds, like the ways in which salmon is farmed.
All of them are much loved, and the gift of pearls never goes out of fashion. They are perhaps the best-loved gems of all time.
Pearls come in many different colors, the most familiar being the cream and white varieties.
Black, gray, and silver Pearls are also quite common, but the palette of colors for Pearls extends to almost every hue.
The body color of the Pearl is sometimes modified by overtones of pink, green, purple, or blue. Orient Pearls display an iridescent sheen.
How to Identify Pearl
It is easy to produce stones that look like Pearls, and indeed much costume jewelry does just that.
That is fine as long as you know what you are buying, but when you are looking for a genuine article, you may want to consider the following attributes.
Real Pearls, like any other authentic gemstone, are never perfect.
They are never completely round in shape and their color is never totally uniform.
Real Pearls are usually heavier than fakes. If fake Pearls are made from plastic or resin this is easy to discern.
If the fakes are made from shells or other organic substances this difference is harder to ascertain.
Real Pearls are slightly gritty due to the natural imperfections to be found in all-natural substances.
The best way to test for this grittiness is to hold the Pearl in your teeth.
If it is smooth and slippery it is most likely a fake, and you will have difficulty holding it there.
Real Pearls allow you to grip their surface with your teeth.
A string of real Pearls will always come with knots and will most likely be threaded with silk.
Fakes tend to be threaded onto nylon and do not have knots between the stones.
Types of Pearl
There are four main types of Pearls.
Freshwater Pearls
Freshwater Pearls are cultured in freshwater lakes and ponds and are the most common, least expensive Pearls.
This is due to the fact that they are easily accessed from special beds of mollusks.
The grains of sand are manually introduced into the shell of the mollusk to begin the layering process.
The Pearls can then be harvested when the time is right.
This, of course, means that a continuous supply of cultured Pearls is always available, making them cheaper than the rarer wild varieties.
They can also be manipulated to produce slight variations in color.
Akoya Pearls
These Pearls are deemed to be the classic gem. They are small and round, usually white, and are the most commonly used in jewelry.
They take one or two years to develop.
South Sea Pearls
There are two varieties of South Sea Pearls, white and golden.
Typically, they measure up to 17mm, although much bigger South Sea Pearls do occur at times.
They take between two and four to develop and are considered to be the most beautiful and valuable of all Pearls.
Perfectly matched strands of South Sea Pearls are rare and can cost up to $300 USD
The value of Golden South Sea Pearls increases according to the depth of color, with the darkest specimens commanding the highest prices.
Tahitian Black Pearls
Despite the name, it is rare to find a truly black Pearl and Tahitian Black Pearls occur in shades of gray and other dark colors such as greens, blues, and browns.
No color is considered to be better than another, and it depends on personal taste as to which Pearl you prefer.
These Pearls are much bigger, and more expensive than, Akoya Pearls.
It is difficult to create matched strands of Tahitian black Pearls, due to the color variations, hence the increased price of jewelry items created from these Pearls.
Pearl Birthstone Meaning & History
Gemini
Pearl is the birthstone for June and for the zodiac sign of Gemini (May 22 to June 21).
Pearls make excellent gifts for almost everybody and almost every occasion.
However, if you are a Gemini, you might be lucky enough to receive even more Pearl pieces as it is your official birthstone.
The sign for Gemini is the twins and most Geminis are flexible in their approach to life in general and when considering both sides of an argument or issue.
They are easy-going and willing to try new things at least once.
The soft luminescence of Pearl is suited to the dreamier side of the Gemini character.
Just as Geminis are able to adapt to new circumstances, so the Pearl is created as the result of the introduction into a mollusk of something that should not be there.
We can learn from the creation of Pearls that sometimes, unwanted, or discordant events in our lives lead to changes for the better.
A Gemini will certainly appreciate this interpretation and embrace it wholeheartedly.
Gemini people are also outgoing, enthusiastic, and sociable types.
They always have something interesting to say and have both intelligence and wisdom in abundance.
They are inquisitive and eager to learn, both qualities promoted by the vibration of Pearl.
Negative Gemini Traits
Geminis can be overly analytical, which can lead to indecisiveness. Big decisions can make them nervous.
The quiet, confident influence of Pearl can help Gemini to overcome this lack of confidence in their own judgment.
Geminis are adaptable and flexible, but the converse side of this quality is a tendency towards fickleness.
They struggle with commitment, always wondering if there is something better out there.
Pearl can help with this by delivering a steadying influence and promoting the use of Inner wisdom and intuition.
Pearl Treatment
Pearls are quite delicate and will need to be looked after if they are to retain their full luster.
How to Clean and Care for Pearl
The best way to clean them is to use very mild soap and warm water, making sure to dry them on a soft cloth before putting them away.
They are organic in origin and should not be exposed to harsh detergents or to steam cleaning.
The natural oils from your skin will benefit Pearls and help to keep them shiny.
However, you should remember the mantra for wearing Pearls: “last on, first off” and avoid getting make-up, perfume, or hairspray on them.
To charge and renew the energy of Pearl leave it in the moonlight. You can also pass it through the smoke from burning sweet sage.
Buyers Guide: Tips & Advice
You will decide which type of Pearl you are wanting to purchase, so the following tips should be adapted to your own needs.
Pearl Quality Factors
Color
No one color of Pearl is considered to be better than another, apart from Golden South Sea Pearls, which range from pale yellow tints to a deeper, rich gold in color.
The stronger the depth of color in this variety the more valuable the stone.
Clarity
Pearls are translucent or opaque.
When choosing your Pearls, consider the way the light plays on the surface of the gems and also the luminescence of the variations in color.
Cut
Pearls are not cut or manipulated by human hands.
They are beauties in their original state and any imperfections in cultured or wild Peals only add to their attractiveness and value.
Carat Weight
Pearls are usually referred to by size rather than weight. Their diameter is expressed in mm.
Larger Pearls can be described in terms of weight, either in carats, grains, or momme.
These descriptors can be converted into one another and also into grams for ease of reference.
One carat = 4 grains=200milligrams = 1/5 gram
The largest pearl ever recorded was found by a diver in 1934 near the island of Palawan in the Philippines and was originally called the Pearl of Allah” but has been renamed as the Pearl of Lao-Tze.
It is 238 millimeters in diameter and weighs 6.4 kilos. Its estimated worth is over $40,000,000 USD.
Pearl and Chakras
Pearl has an especially beneficial effect on the Crown and Third Eye chakras.
The Crown chakra is the seat of intellectual intelligence, and the Third Eye is the gateway to our own Inner Wisdom.
We connect with the outside world and with the wider realms of the cosmos through these higher chakras.
Pearl can be sued to activate the Third eye in a gentle, non-threatening way.
If the Third eye is forced open, through shock or misuse of drugs the resulting mental turmoil can be extremely distressing.
Using Pearl to gently open this chakra is a much safer and more comfortable way to access your psychic and mystical powers.
Pearl can be used on the Crown chakra to integrate logical thinking with spiritual insights.
It connects the Crown with the Base chakra, allowing spiritual truths to become grounded in our physical reality.
Pearl Healing Properties
Physical Healing Properties
Pearl has a strong healing vibration for many physical conditions.
It is believed to be beneficial for women in particular and regulates hormones.
It alleviates the symptoms of PMS, supports a healthy pregnancy, promotes lactation in new mothers, and alleviates menopausal symptoms.
It is beneficial for the lungs and can ease breathing difficulties, especially those caused by allergies such as hay fever.
Pearl is also valued as a detoxifier and supports the healthy function of the liver, kidneys, and colon.
Pearl is cooling and soothing and can be made into an elixir to bathe sore or swollen eyelids.
Pearl is also good for skin conditions such as acne and rosacea.
It can help to alleviate hypertension and exhaustion, soothes headaches, and is said to strengthen the adrenal glands, the spleen, and muscle tissue.
Pearl is good for insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Sleep with Pearl under your pillow, or placed near your head on a nightstand to promote restful sleep and increase dream recall.
Mental & Emotional Healing Properties
Pearl helps to balance the body’s natural rhythms with the lunar cycles.
It brings inner wisdom and resonates with the vibration of Universal love.
It can be an excellent support stone for the development of self-love, which is a prerequisite for both giving and receiving love in the world.
It also promotes Unconditional love and love of, and for, the Divine in all things.
Pearl is a very cooling stone and can help to calm heated tempers and dissipate unwanted anger.
It negates the effects of jealousy, resentment, and rage by dissolving the negativity surrounding these emotions and transmuting it into positive feelings.
Metaphysical Properties
The metaphysical properties of Pearl have long been a source of fascination for humankind.
Their silky texture and play of color over their iridescent surface render them irresistible.
They are said to bring harmony, grace, and elegance to all who wear them.
They are created in synergy with other living creatures which gives them a vibration that is quite unique in the field of gemstones.
Pearls carry the lucidity of water within them and are said to be stones of Inner Wisdom.
They encourage you to listen to the messages from your body and to find your own balance and flow so that you remain serene and unruffled by negative outside influences.
Pearls are born into the world in the depths of the ocean.
The action of the moon on the tides of the ocean also influences the energy of Pearl, connecting it to nature, new beginnings, and Ancient human wisdom.
Spiritual Healing Properties
Pearl is a very spiritual gem that soothes and heals negativity in your aura.
It surrounds you with Divine light and transmutes negative influences into positive vibrations.
When used in meditation it can help to connect to female deities and the Divine Feminine.
It brings in ancient feminine wisdom and allows you to explore past lives in a supportive, nurturing environment.
How to Use Pearl
As Jewelry
A string of Pearls will lift your spirits and enhance any outfit. Pearl Earrings can be simple studs or drops.
Pearl rings are usually combined with other stones and set in gold or silver.
Any one of these pieces will make you feel special and give you access to the cooling, calming vibrations of this magical gem.
In-Home and Office
Having Pearl nearby in your home or office space brings serenity and calm to fraught atmospheres.
It also aids in clarity of the mind and decision-making.
Placing Pearl in the wealth corner of your space attracts financial abundance, and Pearl in the relationship corner brings harmony and love.
Best Crystal and Gemstone Combinations with Pearl
Pearls can be combined with a large number of other gems, crystals, and minerals to enhance their power and produce different healing frequencies.
Diamond and Clear Quartz with Pearl
Combine Diamond or Clear Quartz with Pearl to activate, open and energize your Crown chakra.
Together, these stones enhance spiritual work with your Angels and Guides, especially the power of Archangel Gabriel.
He will help you to understand your true purpose in life and bring discipline into your life so that you can manage your resources, including your time and creativity to your best advantage.
Carnelian and Pearl
Carnelian combination with pearl is beneficial for your Sacral chakra.
These two crystals will help you balance your emotions as the softer, gentler vibration of Pearl combines with the dynamic influence of Carnelian to activate the Sacral chakra and stimulate Kundalini energy.
It harmonizes the energies of sexuality and helps you to manage any issues that are troubling you with regard to your sexual life and relationships.
Obsidian and Moss Agate with Pearl
The combination of Obsidian and Moss Agate with Pearl is especially beneficial for your immune system.
When you are feeling run down, low in mood, or energetically depleted use these gems in a healing grid or place them on your Solar Plexus as you lie in a relaxed position.
Breathe in their combined energies and visualize the healing vibration entering every cell, renewing, and rejuvenating your entire system.
Agate or Jade with Pearl
The combination of Jade or Agate with Pearl will increase overall protection from negative influences, energies, entities, and vibrations in your immediate environment.
Herkimer Diamond and Pearl
This combination can be used when you are engaged in spiritual work.
It helps you to develop and grow spiritually, making sense of messages or signs you need to understand in order to connect more deeply with your soul and spirit.
Final Thoughts & Conclusion
Pearls are wonderful gems to own and wear. Their vibration is soothing, and they serve as a reminder of the healing power of nature.
Pearls reflect Moon energy and can be used during a full moon meditation to raise your awareness and allow you to access your Higher Wisdom and Higher consciousness.
Pearls bring tranquility and calm. They can soothe agitation and bring male and female energies into harmony and balance.
They also promote love, both of the self and of the world.
As a Love token between two individuals, Pearls represent fidelity, loyalty, steadfastness, and respect.
Pearls can attune your energy to the ebb and flow of the cycles of life, just as the moon affects the ebb and flow of the tides.
They promote faith, wisdom, honesty, and charity.
They negate the influences of negativity vibrations in your aura and offer instead a soothing, positive outlook that will be of benefit both to you and to those around you.
Pearl is a symbol of purity and innocence.
Wearing Pearls reminds you that being kind, pure of heart and thought, and compassionate towards others brings great rewards in terms of mental and emotional positivity.
Pearl can encourage the flow of money into your life.
When you set an intention to achieve financial security, or secure a promotion, with Pearl, you bring in the energy of abundance.
Try meditating with Pearl and visualize yourself with all the money you need.
See yourself using this money wisely and manifesting what you need without squandering it or using it for purposes that are harmful to you or to others.
Pearl supports the wise use of all resources.
References
Diamond Rocks | GIA | Prepscholar | Select Traders |
