In ancient times, Romans whispered that pearls were frozen tears of Gods. The Japanese claimed they were tears of mythical creatures. The Greeks believed lightning strikes on the ocean formed these magical gems and academics argued they were simply solidified dewdrops caught in the mouths of clams.
Pearls have been found in Syrian tombs dating back centuries BC and the preciousness of pearls are referenced in religious texts like the Bible, the Koran and the Indian Vedas. Cleopatra wooed Anthony on the shores of the Nile with pearls and it is scribed that Julius Caesar bought his lover Servilia a single pearl in 59BC for a price that would equate to some US $650,000 today!
Whatever romantic notion or indeed, scientific explanation for the origin of pearls, there is no denying that these valuable living treasures have been inspiring civilisations for centuries and will continue to do so for centuries to come.
From heaven there fell upon the foaming wave,
A timid drop; the flood with anger roared.
But God, its modest boldness to reward,
Strength to the drop and firm endurance gave.
It’s form the mussel captive took,
And to it’s lasting glory and renown,
The pearl now glistens in our monarch’s crown.
With gentle gleam and loving look.
Johann Wolfgang von Goeth