According to Indian mythology, a pearl was formed when dew drops during a full moon fell from the heavens into the sea and were captured by shellfish under the first rays of the rising sun, during a period of full moon..
Warriors in India encrusted pearls into the handles of their swords to symbolize the tears (Pearls were once thought to be the tears of God) and sorrow that a sword can bring.
Early Chinese myths told of pearls falling from the sky when dragons fought.
Ancient legend says that pearls were thought to be the tears of the gods and the Greeks believed that wearing pearls would promote marital bliss and prevent newlywed women from crying.
Pearls have been treasured for centuries by the emperors, kings and queens of the world.
The Roman Emperor Nero had pearl couches built for his paramours, Cleopatra won a bet with Marc Anthony by consuming crushed Pearls, and they have been known as a symbol of purity and chastity.
Queen Elizabeth I was literally studded with them.
History
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, for whom he also built the Taj Mahal.
Pearls were also widely used as medicine in Europe until the 17th century.
Arabs and Persians believed it was a cure for various kinds of diseases, as well as insanity.
Pearls have also been used as medicine as early as 2000 BC in China, where it was believed to represent wealth, power and longevity.
Even to this day, lowest-grade pearls are ground for use as medicine in the Orient.
La Peregrina (the Wanderer) is considered by many experts to be the most beautiful pearl.
It was said to be originally found by a slave in Panama four-hundred years ago, who gave it up in return for his freedom.
In 1570, the conquistadors sent the pearl to King Philip II of Spain.
This pear-shaped white pearl, one and a half inches in length, hangs from a platinum mount studded with diamonds.
The pearl was passed to Mary I of England, then to Prince Louis Napoleon of France. He sold it to the British Marquis of Abercon, but then it disappeared for a century only to turn up once again at a New York auction house in 1969. The pearl was purchased by actor Richard Burton for his wife, Elizabeth Taylor.
Meanings & Symbol
As an emblem of modesty, chastity and purity, the Pearl symbolizes love, success, and happiness.
They often symbolize a happy marriage and in many countries are used as a wedding gift.
Pearls are also thought to give wisdom through experience, to cement engagements and love relationships.
They are thought to keep children safe.
In present time, the pearl is a universal symbol of purity.
Pearl beautiful bride, but signifies tears, Health and Longevity
