The History of Pearls

Pearls have been sought out and prized for more than 4000 years, which by our standard makes them the oldest gemstone in the world. Pearls have long been highly valued in nearly every culture throughout history, dating as far back as 2300 BC. Chinese records tell us that pearls were the prized possessions of (and coveted gifts to) royalty. In India, ancient Hindu texts refer to pearls often, even alluding to the god Krishna discovering the first pearl. In ancient Egypt, mother-of-pearl was commonly used for decorative and cultural purposes as far back as our 4000 BC mark. The use of actual pearls does not seem to come until much later during the 5th century BC.

Romans and Greeks prized pearls the most. The June birthstone, then, was a highly prized accessory worn as a symbol of wealth and prestige to the point of striving to keep the common class from obtaining them. They were also used specifically at weddings, where they were said to bring (or symbolize) love. The Persian Gulf is is rich with natural oyster beds, so the Arab cultures also placed a very high value on pearls, which are described in the Koran as one of the greatest treasures that naturally occurs in Paradise. Infact, a recent discovery of a pearl from a Neolithic site of the Umm al Ouwain Emirates, traces its origin to 5’500 years before our time. It’s the most ancient pearl ever found.

But let’s get on with it…

Pearls in Modern History

We could go into western civilization, South America and the modern rise of pearls as we we know it in modern history, but let’s not. Let’s talk about the glamour surrounding the birthstone of June – PEARLS. Who more iconic.. that string of pearls around the neck, that updo and perfect little black dress? Audrey Hepburn became an iconic figure wearing pearls in the well known classic “Breakfast at Tiffany’s“. Every single woman in our culture has probably idolized, quoted or wished to live as Audrey Hepburn at some time in their life. The pearls!

“Many remember Audrey Hepburn for being pretty and beautiful which she was but her thoughts on life and her inner depth of beauty and soul brought about a person whose presence made a difference to the world in which she entered and touched. Audrey Hepburn was listed in the International Best Dressed Hall of Fame and her beauty as a woman was regarded as classic, timeless and natural. It is not surprising based on her outlook to beauty that she would treasure a gem like pearls – natural and organic.” ~ Digitalism Magazine

Marylin Monroe and Pearls

Moving on… Marylin Monroe, maybe the most famous of all faces to be adorned in pearls. She caused fantasies, day dreams and lifestyle choices for many. She may have said “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend” but, who in history has given us more beautiful images of a girl wrapped in sheer luxury? We will always remember Marylin Monroe for pearls.

“Actress Marilyn Monroe was born as Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926 in Los Angeles, California. During her all-too-brief life, Marilyn Monroe overcame a difficult childhood to become one of the world’s biggest and most enduring sex symbols. During her career, Monroe’s films grossed more than $200 million. Monroe died of a drug overdose on August 5, 1962, at only 36 years old.

In 2011, several rarely seen photos of Marilyn Monroe were published in a book of photographs by famed photographer Sam Shaw. August 5, 2012 marked the 50th anniversary of Monroe’s death. Now more than a half century later, the world is still fascinated by her beauty and talent.” ~Bio.com

Coco Chanel and Pearls

Lastly, though there are many more… Who could be so decadent, so idolized, so memorable as Coco Chanel. “Famed fashion designer Coco Chanel was born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel on August 19, 1883, in Saumur, France. With her trademark suits and little black dresses, Coco Chanel created timeless designs that are still popular today. She herself became a much revered style icon known for her simple yet sophisticated outfits paired with great accessories, such as several strands of pearls. As Chanel once said,“luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury.” ~ Bio.com

At Gittelson Jewelers, we totally agree.

The birthstone of June: Pearl

Do you know a deserving lady as timeless as Audrey, as all-american as Marylin or as decadent as Coco? Now is your time to be a hero. Its June and the birthstone of June is the pearl. Gittelson Jewelers is proud to offer gorgeous, genuine, freshwater cultured pearls. Starting from 6mm up to 10.5 mm in diameter, freshwater cultured pearls have excellent luster with a varying white-rosy-pink hue Strands start from 16 inches in length on up to 42″.

Contact Gittelson Jewelers for you all of your pearl needs. Check out our birthstone jewelry guide, for more information.

Answer: What is the largest Pearl in the World?

The largest pearl in the world is believed to be about three inches long and two inches across, weighing one-third of a pound. Called the Pearl of Asia, it was a gift from Shah Jahan of India to his favorite wife, Mumtaz, for whom he also built the Taj Mahal.