Pearl gemstone is one of the oldest and universal of all gemstones. Therefore, many popular myths and superstitions have been strung with the pearl gemstone for centuries.
Nobody is sure whether this belief and stories about pearl stones are true or fake.
So, it is entirely up to you to either believe in these superstitions and stories or ignore it. Now, let’s talk about some popular beliefs and superstitions attached to the mesmerizing pearl stone.
1. Pearls and the Tears of Mermaids
The Myth
One of the most enchanting myths about pearls is that they are the tears of mermaids. According to this legend, mermaids weep for sailors lost at sea, and their tears transform into beautiful pearls upon touching the ocean floor. This romantic notion has been perpetuated through fairy tales, literature, and art, adding an aura of mystical allure to pearls.
The Truth
While the story of mermaid tears is purely a fantasy, the origin of pearls is no less fascinating. Pearls are formed inside mollusks, primarily oysters and mussels, as a defense mechanism against irritants like a grain of sand or a parasite. The mollusk secretes layers of nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl, around the irritant, gradually forming a pearl. This natural process, while not as poetic as mermaid tears, is a marvel of biology.
2. Pearls as Symbols of Purity and Innocence
The Myth
Throughout history, pearls have been regarded as symbols of purity and innocence. This belief is particularly prevalent in Western cultures, where brides often wear pearls on their wedding day to symbolize their pure heart and virtuous nature. This association is thought to originate from the pearl’s unblemished and radiant appearance.
The Truth
While pearls are indeed stunning and have a pristine quality, the notion of them symbolizing purity and innocence is a cultural construct rather than an inherent attribute of the gemstone. The practice of wearing pearls at weddings likely stems from Victorian times when pearls were favored for their elegance and refinement. Though pearls can certainly complement a bride’s attire beautifully, their symbolism is a matter of tradition rather than intrinsic meaning.
3. Pearls Bring Bad Luck to Brides
The Myth
In stark contrast to the previous belief, there is a myth in some cultures that pearls bring bad luck to brides. This superstition suggests that pearls, resembling tears, will bring sorrow and unhappiness to the marriage. This belief has led some brides to avoid wearing pearls on their wedding day.
The Truth
The idea that pearls bring bad luck is purely a superstition with no factual basis. Pearls have been worn by countless brides over centuries without any correlation to the success or failure of their marriages. The belief likely arose from the pearl’s resemblance to tears, but this is a classic example of how symbolic interpretations can vary widely between cultures. Ultimately, whether or not to wear pearls should be a personal choice based on aesthetic preference rather than superstition.
4. Pearls as the Tears of the Gods
The Myth
In various ancient cultures, pearls were believed to be the tears of the gods. For example, in Hindu mythology, pearls were thought to be the tears of the moon, fallen into the sea. Similarly, in Persian legend, pearls were created when a rainbow met the earth after a storm, with imperfections representing the struggles faced by the gods.
The Truth
These myths reflect the awe and reverence that pearls inspired in ancient civilizations. The idea that such a perfect and beautiful object could only come from divine intervention speaks to the wonder that pearls have always evoked. However, as mentioned earlier, pearls are the result of a natural biological process. Their formation is an extraordinary example of nature’s ability to create beauty from adversity.
5. Pearls Lose Their Luster When Neglected
The Myth
A widely held belief is that pearls will lose their luster if they are not worn regularly. According to this myth, pearls need to be in contact with the human body to maintain their shine, as the oils from the skin help to keep them radiant.
The Truth
There is a kernel of truth in this myth. Pearls can indeed benefit from being worn, as natural oils from the skin can help maintain their luster. However, this is not an absolute necessity. Proper care and storage are critical factors in preserving a pearl’s beauty. Pearls should be stored in a soft cloth, kept away from harsh chemicals, and cleaned gently with a damp cloth to maintain their sheen.
6. Pearls Can Dissolve in Vinegar
The Myth
Another enduring myth is that pearls can dissolve in vinegar. This belief traces back to ancient times, most notably to the story of Cleopatra dissolving a pearl in vinegar to win a bet against Mark Antony, demonstrating Egypt’s wealth.
The Truth
While there is some scientific truth to this myth, it is exaggerated. Pearls are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which can indeed react with acetic acid (the main component of vinegar). However, the dissolution process is neither instantaneous nor dramatic. It would take a significant amount of time and a strong concentration of vinegar to dissolve a pearl completely. Cleopatra’s legendary feat, therefore, is likely more fiction than fact.
7. The Perfectly Round Pearl
The Myth
A common misconception is that all pearls are perfectly round. The ideal of a perfectly spherical pearl has been romanticized in jewelry and media, leading many to believe that this is the standard for all pearls.
The Truth
In reality, perfectly round pearls are quite rare. Most pearls come in a variety of shapes, including oval, button, drop, and baroque (irregularly shaped). These variations are a natural result of the pearl formation process and add to the uniqueness and character of each pearl. While perfectly round pearls are prized for their symmetry and classic beauty, other shapes can be equally stunning and desirable.
8. Natural Pearls Are Always Better Than Cultured Pearls
The Myth
There is a persistent belief that natural pearls are inherently superior to cultured pearls. This myth stems from the notion that anything naturally occurring must be more valuable and authentic than something that is cultivated.
The Truth
Both natural and cultured pearls have their unique merits. Natural pearls are rare and often more valuable due to their scarcity. However, cultured pearls, which are created with human intervention by inserting a nucleus into the mollusk, are also real pearls and can be of exceptional quality. Many of the finest pearls on the market today are cultured, thanks to advances in pearl farming techniques. The quality of a pearl should be judged on its luster, surface quality, shape, and size, rather than its origin.
9. Pearls as Amulets for Protection
The Myth
In various cultures, pearls have been believed to possess protective powers. For instance, ancient Chinese warriors wore pearls into battle, believing they would keep them safe. Similarly, pearls were thought to protect against fire, dragons, and evil spirits.
The Truth
While the protective qualities of pearls are part of folklore, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Pearls’ value as talismans lies in the cultural and psychological significance they hold for the wearer. As symbols of wealth, beauty, and status, pearls can indeed imbue the wearer with confidence and a sense of security, albeit in a more symbolic than literal sense.
10. Pearls Only Come in White
The Myth
The classic image of a pearl is often that of a perfectly round, pristine white gem. This has led to the misconception that pearls only come in white.
The Truth
Pearls come in a wide range of colors, including black, gray, silver, blue, green, yellow, gold, and even pink. The color of a pearl is influenced by several factors, including the type of mollusk, the environment in which it is formed, and the specific conditions of the water. For example, black pearls, often produced by the black-lipped oyster, are highly prized for their exotic and striking appearance.
11. Pearls Can Heal
The Myth
Pearls have been attributed to various healing properties in different cultures. It is believed that they can cure ailments, enhance beauty, and even prolong life. This myth is particularly prevalent in traditional Chinese medicine, where pearl powder is used in various remedies.
The Truth
While there is no scientific basis for the healing properties attributed to pearls, they do contain trace elements of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and zinc, which are beneficial to health. Pearl powder is used in some beauty products for its purported skin-enhancing properties, though its effectiveness is subject to debate. Any health benefits from pearls are more likely to come from the minerals they contain rather than any mystical qualities.
12. Pearls Bring Wealth and Prosperity
The Myth
In some cultures, pearls are considered to bring wealth and prosperity to their owners. This belief is particularly strong in Indian and Persian traditions, where pearls are seen as symbols of affluence and good fortune.
The Truth
While pearls can indeed be valuable and a sign of wealth, the idea that they inherently bring prosperity is more symbolic than factual. Owning valuable pearls can be a sign of financial success, but it is the economic decisions and investments made by the owner that ultimately determine their wealth and prosperity. The symbolic association of pearls with wealth likely stems from their historical status as luxury items accessible only to the rich and powerful.
13. Pearls Need to Breathe
The Myth
A curious myth is that pearls need to “breathe” and should not be kept in airtight containers. According to this belief, depriving pearls of air will cause them to lose their luster and become dull.
The Truth
While it is true that pearls can be sensitive to their environment, they do not need to “breathe” in the way living organisms do. However, storing pearls in a dry, airtight container can cause them to dehydrate and become brittle over time. Pearls should be kept in a slightly humid environment, ideally wrapped in a soft cloth, to maintain their moisture and luster. This practice helps prevent them from drying out and preserves their natural beauty.
14. The Bigger the Pearl, the Better
The Myth
There is a common belief that bigger pearls are always better and more valuable. This myth suggests that the size of a pearl is the most important factor in determining its worth.
The Truth
While size is an important factor in evaluating a pearl’s value, it is not the only one. The quality of a pearl is assessed based on several criteria, including luster, surface quality, shape, and color. A smaller pearl with exceptional luster and flawless surface can be more valuable than a larger pearl with visible imperfections. Therefore, while larger pearls can be impressive, their overall quality must be considered to determine their true worth.
15. Pearls and Moon Phases
The Myth
In various cultures, it is believed that the formation and quality of pearls are influenced by the phases of the moon. According to this myth, pearls formed during a full moon are considered the most beautiful and valuable.
The Truth
The formation of pearls is primarily influenced by the biological processes within the mollusk and the environmental conditions of the water. While the moon does affect tides and can influence the marine environment, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that the moon’s phases directly impact the quality of pearls. This myth likely arises from the symbolic association of the moon with femininity, mystery, and beauty, attributes also often associated with pearls.