History starts with the woman's desire to adorn herself with ornaments of all kinds, especially pearls, being one of the natures best bounties to humankind. Pearls have always been the most sought after gem because of their natural beauty and brilliant lustrous appeal. Unlike most gems, including diamonds, which are mined, cut, and shined, pearls are grown naturally in oysters in lakes or seawater. Ancient history tells us that Egyptians used to bury pearls alongside the dead bodies of their dear ones. The famous Egyptian queen Cleopatra reportedly had dissolved a single pearl in a glass of wine and drank it, simply to win a wager with Marc Anthony that she could consume the wealth of an entire nation in just one meal. During the Roman Empire, pearls were considered the ultimate symbol of wealth and prosperity. Pearls were also treasured as a unique symbol of showing great opulence. British Royalty had exquisite collections of rare, beautiful pearls all the time. Pearls were limited to be worn by worriers and rulers. Many European countries passed laws forbidding the wearing of pearls by others outside of the nobility. Because of their unrivaled beauty it was customary among ancient Greeks to offer pearls as wedding gifts and their possession was considered a sign of happy marriage and sacred love. Indian Maharajas and Queens had always adorned themselves with precious pearl jewelry, and Hindus and Chinese, during ancient times, always considered pearls a sign of love, health and prosperity. Many believed that they were tears from Heaven or Goddesses that were nurtured in an oysters womb. Not only are women passionate about wearing pearl jewelry, but the quality of pearls a woman wears defines her persona and her desire to look beautiful and elegant. Kheri www.pearlprincess.com |
