Gemstones & Metals
Pearls Of Wisdom – Interesting Facts About June’s Royal Gem
It has been said that pearls was born when dewdrops filled with moonlight fell from the heavens and became the heart of the oyster. Ancient Romans believed pearls to be the crystallised tears of angels, while the Greeks believed pearls were formed by bolts of lighting piercing the sea.
Whatever the theory, this iridescent gem has throughout history been valued for its beauty and uniqueness – the only jewel created by a living animal, no two pearls are alike.
Types of Pearl
Akoya
Akoya pearls are grown off the coast of Japan and are considered the ‘classic’ pearl.
Freshwater
Grown in a non-saline environment, freshwater pearls are known for their pastel tones and free-form baroque shapes.
south sea
Saltwater pearls are grown in Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia and can range in colour from a snowy white to lustrous gold.
Tahitian
Commonly known as ‘black pearls’, these are grown in French Polynesia and highly valued due to their rarity.
Famous Pearls – La Peregrina
in Spanish means “the Pilgrim” or “the Wanderer” was discovered off the gulf of Panama in by a slave who was in turn rewarded with his freedom. At the time of discovery it was the largest pearl ever found weighing in at a whopping 55.5ct. The size of a pigeon’s egg, this pear-shaped treasure has been owned by Philip II of Spain, Mary Tudor of England (“Bloody Mary”), and Napoleon III. Most famously Richard Burton purchased the pearl at the Sotheby’s auction for $37,000 as a Valentine’s Day gift for Elizabeth Taylor during their first marriage. After her death, the historic pearl was sold at a Christie’s auction in December 2011 for a record $11.8 million.
Illustrious & Iconic
The pearl is a gemstone of history and mythology, loved and valued by royalty and hollywood alike. Over time, the pearl has become a symbol of purity and innocence, and is now traditionally worn as bridal jewellery and adorned onto wedding gowns. Shop our pearl collection below to bring out your wild and wondrous side.