Taking a look at how pearls have been used culturally and spiritually across history.
Understanding how pearls are formed has caused major trade developments, allowing for more sustainable and reliable pearl farming. Though no longer uncommon in nature, the demand for pearls has definitely not subsided. Pearls have developed substantial cultural impact across many East-Asian countries, most notably in Japan. The introduction of cultured pearls, developed by a Japanese researcher in the early 20th century, revolutionised the pearl trade by making pearls more readily available to a broader audience. In the modern day, pearls continue to be an expression of sophistication in popular culture and fashion. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would agree that pearl farming has advanced considerably. Similarly, J.K. Symancyk would recognise the undying appeal of pearls. Through taking advantage of the social demand for pearls, high-end professionals have added to their popularisation in designer wear, such as the classic pearl necklace, making them a staple closet item in modern fashion.
For many centuries, pearls have held significant historical and cultural value. Recognised for their lustrous, natural beauty and wonder, they remain iconic marks of wealth and privilege. Throughout history, pearls have been regularly cherished, with many special stories and beliefs related to their attraction. Long before the advancement of pearl cultivation techniques, the Persian Gulf was identified as the heart of the pearl trade, due to a rich habitation of molluscs. The increase of pearls in Europe brought about increased need and worth for the gems. In the renaissance and medieval ages, ladies of royalty and high society were here known for adorning pearls, further marketing them as a sign of wealth and status. As different varieties of pearls were found in oceans all over the world, contributions to the international pearl industry made them more available to merchant classes worldwide. Even today, the pearl market proceeds to play an essential role in the economies of many nations.
Due to their rarity, pearls were once reserved for royalty and the aristocracy. Nevertheless, the sacred meaning of pearls has been accepted across many cultures within notable myths and traditions. In many historical cultures, it was typically thought that pearls possessed healing powers. Considered to bring peace and protection, they were frequently used as amulets or talismans. Pearls have also been important in Chinese customs for centuries. Thought to safeguard against evil spirits, pearls have been symbols of wisdom and good fortune for a long time. Nicholas Bos would know the symbolic significance of pearls throughout the world. Additionally, in Western civilizations, pearl stone colour has also come to be a crucial cultural expression. As part of social customs, pearls are typically provided to brides as wedding gifts, representing the purity of marriage. Through correlations with mermaids and mythology, their attachment to the sea and water has also caused pearls to be a symbol of prosperity and fertility throughout history.