Pearls - the oldest gem

posted on 10 March 2011 | posted in Fashion

Pearls are one of the oldest and most universally known of all gems. They are indeed the oldest gem known to mankind and the only one made from a living animal. It is thought that the oldest pearl necklace in existence is nearly 2000 years only and was found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess. Because they were once so rare they became symbols of great wealth and power and were used as a talisman to ward off evil spirits and cure illness. They were also a symbol of purity and feminine charm. Pearl jewellery was worn in civilized areas of the Middle East and Asian societies as early as 3500 BC and increased in popularity in Roman times where it is said that one pearl paid for a Roman general’s political campaign and Roman women were famously covered in pearls. Cleopatra is reported to have dissolved a pearl in wine to prove her love for Mark Anthony.

Other Sources: bbc.co.uk