PEARL - PHYSICAL & METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Pearls are the oldest known gem, and for centuries were considered the most valuable. Pearls represent purity, innocence and integrity. They have long been considered ideal wedding gifts because they symbolize purity and innocence. In the Hindu religion, the presentation of an un-drilled Pearl and its piercing has formed part of the marriage ceremony. There are three basic types of pearls- saltwater, freshwater and specialty. Saltwater pearls come from oysters and are generally what people mean when they speak of "REAL" pearls. Freshwater pearls come from mussels and specialty pearls are from other sea beasts such as Giant Clams (Tahitian) and conch. Most specialty pearls are natural. These days both saltwater and freshwater pearls are cultured. This means that, while they are still covered in the natural nacre that a mollusk produces to protect itself, the creature has been scientifically irritated with the specific intent necessary to produce a pearl. Natural saltwater pearls are very rare and very costly. "Mikimoto" is the name of the man who perfected the pearl culturing process. "Majorica" is the island where they produce a gorgeous fake pearl out of resin and fish scales in a secret process that appears to be similar to that of goldstone. Both are BRAND NAMES not types of pearls. The metaphysical properties associated with pearls are purity, faith, charity, innocence, integrity, focus, wisdom, spirituality, sincerity & fertility.