History of Pearls in Jewellery

Pearls have been used as adornments for thousands of years, and their popularity dates back to ancient times.

The ancient Egyptians were known to adorn themselves in pearls and considered them as the symbol of the Goddess Isis. Their jewellery often included intricate pearl necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

The Romans were so fond of pearls that they passed sumptuary laws forbidding anyone but the ruling class from wearing them. Pearls were used to create elaborate headpieces, brooches and to decorate clothing.

The Renaissance period saw exquisitely crafted pearl jewellery, with designs becoming more ornate, featuring not only pearls but also precious stones. At this time, pearls were greatly valued, and monarchs and nobility wore them as a display of their wealth and social status.

The Victorian era was characterised by dramatic changes in jewellery making, with intricate designs and a greater emphasis on detailed craftsmanship. This period saw pearl necklaces becoming increasingly popular, and the famous opera-length pearl necklaces were born.

In the early 20th century, pearls went out of fashion due to a lack of supply and the rise of more modern designs. However, the popularity of pearls came back in the 1920s, with the introduction of the Art Deco movement. Pearls were used in geometric patterns and highly stylised designs, with symmetrical motifs and bold colours.

The popularity of pearls continues today, although their use has evolved. They are now used in modern, minimalist designs, but also in more traditional motifs, such as the classic single- or multi-strand pearl necklace. Pearls have become more accessible to a broader audience today, with artificial, freshwater, and cultured pearls being very popular.

Although the designs have evolved over time, the elegance and sophistication of pearls remain just as popular today as they were centuries ago.