Ah the pearl. A true classic in jewelry for millennia, but what is a pearl exactly? A pearl is created by a mollusk and consists of the same mineral and material as the shell. It is a natural secretion that  coats perhaps a piece of sand or some other foreign object trapped within the home of the mollusks shell and is to protect the animal. The coating is present on the inside of the shell as well. It is principally made of the mineral argonite and small amount of conchiolin. Together these minerals make Mother of Pearl. The color of a pearl depends on the creature creating it and it's surrounding. Colors range from white and yellow to soft pink, lavender, champagne, blue, green and black. Pearls come from all over the world and there are pearl farms where cultured pearls are made. Cultured means that humans have placed a tiny mother of pearl bead into the shell and allowed the process to continue naturally. 

The pearl represents Cancer and Gemini astrological signs. The pearl is often seen in wedding jewelry as the symbol of purity and loyalty. Named "The shell of sincerity" bringing truth to situations. Signifies faith, charity, integrity and innocents. Helps to focus attention.  

The pearl has never lost it's place in the world of jewelry and is considered to be a classic.  It can be dressed up or down and there is most likely one pair of simple pearl earrings in every woman's jewelry box. I think that is what I love best about the pearl, it is not reserved for one type of woman or one age group. It is clean, classic and yet can be over the top elegant, or even rock and roll. The pearl is truly versatile and ageless.

I hope you enjoyed the pearl and I hope you have a peaceful week.
Dawn Rosell

Information sources: Smithsonian rock and gem book and Love is the earth by Melody

 This classic is making a revival into main stream trends. It has never gone out of style however it is having a refresh in more modern and sometime bold ways. We are seeing it in gold settings, some super chunky and others delicate but not just in single numbers in one setting but up to twenty or more in some cases. More is certainly more in this case. Layered is another way we are seeing these pretties worn. Paired with more pearls or simple chains in multiple lengths. Also making a big impact this season is mismatch earrings, so if you are all about the pearl trend I say buy two different pairs and mismatch when your in a quirky mood and match them when you feel more traditional and classic. You really can never go wrong with pearls whether your into silver or gold settings these beauties never go out of trend.