Pearls have been used to adorn jewelry for longer than any other gem, and centuries later, they retain their relevance in the world of fashion at Bhindi Jewelers.
A true wonder of nature, the pearl is both the oldest and one of the most beloved gems known to humankind. From kings and queens of the 1st century BC to today’s celebrity royalty, pearly jewelry has been synonymous with luxury, prosperity, and elegance as its soft luminescent glow is irreplaceable in the world of fashion jewelry. Adorn yourself with these marvels of the sea for an eye-catching and timeless effect.
The Formation of Pearls
Mollusks are the source of all of the world’s naturally formed pearls. The gems are created due to an irritant like bacteria, a grain of sand, or even a piece of the creature’s own mantle trapped in the mollusk's shell. The mollusk will then secrete the same substances it used to create its shell to encase the irritant to protect itself. This forms the pearl that is then harvested for use in jewelry today.
Pearls Across History and Cultures
The oldest known pearl jewelry was discovered in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess. You can view the recovered fragment from over 2400 BC at the Louvre in Paris. As early as 2300 BC, pearls were given as gifts to Chinese royalty. In Ancient Rome, pearl jewelry was the ultimate symbol of status and wealth. Caesar even passed a law forbidding anyone besides those in the ruling class to wear it.
Legends surrounding pearls in the Persian Gulf and Arab cultures suggested that these wondrous gems were formed when oysters swallowed dewdrops that fell into the sea. In the Middle Ages, they were believed to have protective properties and were worn by knights into battle to keep them from harm.
Iconic Styles of Pearl Jewelry
When you think of pearls, the first image your mind conjures is likely of a classic string of pearls worn by your mother or grandmother. This timeless piece, situated in the center of one’s frame, brings a touch of sophistication and femininity to any look and draws the eyes to your face. Pearl studs are also a phenomenal way to incorporate these unique gems into your look, framing your most essential
features and allowing for versatile wear.
For a slightly different look, seek types of pearls such as the Tahitian variety cultivated primarily around the islands of French Polynesia. These pearls – also referred to as black pearls – are darker than the most common type of pearl and range in color from gray to brown to black with pink, purple, or blue overtones.
Pearl Jewelry On the Red Carpet
Today’s celebrities frequently don this elegant gem as both an ode to classic fashion and an opaque and eye-catching alternative to the diamonds that dominate the world of high-end jewelry. Pearls have gotten significant time in the spotlight at recent award shows and star-studded events such as the Oscars and the Met Gala.
The 2022 Met Gala dress code was “gilded glamor,” which resulted in a plethora of glittering, jaw-dropping ensembles, some of which were accented with the unique glow of pearl jewelry. Supermodel Gigi Hadid paired a stunning black pearl and gemstone necklace with her futuristic look, creating a dynamic contrast. Icons like Harry Styles, Pharrell, and Joe Jonas have also been seen sporting asymmetrical baroque pearl earrings, necklaces, and bracelets for a uniquely feminine and refined effect.
Shop Pearl Jewelry at Bhindi Jewelers
Outfit your personal collection with impeccably designed and constructed pieces of pearl, gemstone, and gold jewelry from endlessly talented creators with the help of our Georgia and California jewelry stores.
We staff each of our showrooms with creative, experienced, and knowledgeable personnel who will be more than happy to guide you through our selection to find the perfect piece for you. Request an appointment for a personalized consultation with one of our team members, or stop by one of our locations to learn more about our products and services.