 | PEARL- A pearl is the product of an oyster’s defense mechanism. When a foreign irritant is introduced either by man (cultured) or naturally, the oyster immediately surrounds it with layers of a substance called nacre. This forms the exquisite gemstone known as a pearl. Pearls come in a wide range of colors. They should be relatively free from skin blemishes. The more perfectly round the shape the better. The higher luster or “orient” the more valuable the specimen. The larger the pearl the greater the value. Besides the popular round shape, there are stylish mabe (larger hemispherical cultured pearls), fresh water (elongated in interesting shapes and colors) and South Sea (large cultured pearls 10mm and up for Australia’s and Indonesia’s waters), to name a few. Different shades of colors may be achieved through bleaching, dyeing, chemicals combined with heat and irradiation. The cultured pearl is a triumphant alternative to the fast disappearing natural pearl. They are produced mainly by the Japanese who early in the century perfected a way to insert certain kinds of oysters in clam shell beds. Than harvest them 1-2 years later after being covered with a substantial layer of nacre. Virtually all cultured pearls are permanently bleached to lighten their body color and remove discolorations. In addition some pearls are dyed to give them a lasting rosy glow. The black pearl is one of the rarest and most costly of all the natural gems, have been idolized through legends dating back hundreds of years. Originally found only in exotic and remote South Sea locations such as Tahiti, fabled giant black pearls were owned only by the Emperors, Kings, and Sultans. The incidence of these naturally black cultured pearls is so low that they are unattainable to most people who admire their exotic beauty. Today, luxurious, yet affordable classic Akoya and Chinese freshwater cultured black pearls are now available. Cultivated in both oysters and mussels, these pearls are then irradiated or dyed to rich dark colors ranging from gray to black with a rainbow of overtones. Pearls are the “official” birthstone of the months of June. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 3rd and 30th year of marriage. They have been recognized as the emblem of modesty, chastity, and purity. They have come to symbolize a happy marriage. Avoid household chemicals, cosmetics, hair sprays, and perfumes. Do not us ultrasonic cleaners. Wash with a mild soap and water and store in a protective chamois pouch or tissue. It is also recommended that you wipe it with a soft cloth after each wearing. On the Moh’s scale pearls are between a 2.5 and 4.5. White pearls are the symbol of pure heart and mind; innocence, faith. Of the sea, it has watery and lunar elements, thus balancing emotions, especially for water signs. Absorbs thoughts, emotions. For solar plexus Chakra (digestion, stomach, immunity) and emotional stress. Low integrity or anger rebounds to user. The pearl is mothering, softens pain, soothing peaceful. Gold and black pearls are used for prosperity and the pink works especially well with the heart chakra. | |
| MOTHER OF PEARL - (pink to white) Natural Mother-of-Pearl cut form the golden lip mother-of-pearl shell, they are unbleached to retain their natural warm tawny color and their rainbow flesh. Black Mother-of-Pearl are cut from the smooth interior surfaces of the black Mother-of-pearl shell. These cabochons have a silver gray color with a pearlescent sheen giving off a spectrum of colors. White Mother-of-Pearl cut from the golden lip mother-of-pearl shell then bleached. These have a beautiful white sheen glazed over an ivory background. Epoxy-coated tops protect against breakage, provide stability and enhance pearlesence. Absorbs your negative energy, clarifies feelings, transmutation, stabilizer. Protection, particularly around the house. Also relates to ocean’s depth and movement. Good for those who have asthma and allergies.On the Moh's scale pearls range between a 2.5 and 4.5 Providence Modelling Skin, Emotions Pearl Trivia Pearls are symbolic of modesty and purity; they inspire honesty, innocence and love. Pearls are often thought to bring narital bliss to the wearers. The oldest known pearl necklace is more than 4,000 years old; it was found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess who died in 520 B.C. An old legend says pearls were formed when dewdrops filled with moonlight fell into the ocean and were swallowed by oysters. It is said that pearls can help one gain self-knowledge and feeling of self-worth and enable one to accept love. In the Hindu religion, the presentation of an undrilled pearl has been part of the marriage ceremony. Until the beginning of the 19th century pearls were extremely rare. It was considered to be a good harvest if, out of 100 oysters one pearl was found. |