PEARLS

The pearl is the oldest known gem, and for centuries it was considered the most valuable. To the ancients, pearls were a symbol of the moon and had magical powers, which could bring prosperity and long life.

Throughout history, pearls have been considered divine gifts especially suited for royalty. Women who wanted to gain the favor of a king would offer him pearls. In Persia, crowns with double circlets of pearls were the symbol of royal and divine birth. Some cultures, such as the Chinese, have used pearls medically to cure a variety of ailments. Pearls have also been prescribed as a love potion and tonic for long life.

Today, no woman's wardrobe is complete without a strand of pearls.