Pearl
Description: Pearls are calcified objects, made by shellfish from the very same material that they use to form their protective shells. They can be produced by both salt and freshwater oysters. Like Amber, Jet, and fossils, Pearl is the product of a living creature. The oyster produces the Pearl when a particle of sand, or some other foreign material gets under the oyster’s skin between the skin and its shell. The oyster, in response to this irritation, coats the offending grain over a period of time with layers of pearly smooth calcium. The result of this process is the beautiful Pearl. Production of Pearls can be induced if a grain of sand is purposely forced between the skin and shell, and most Pearls on the market today are produced this way. These are known as cultured Pearls. The color of Pearl can include white, black, gray, pinkish-white, yellow-white, and bluish-gray, but the most common is white or cream-colored.
Location: The inside of oysters, in bodies of freshwater or the Ocean.
Astrological Sign: Cancer and Gemini
Spiritual Uses: Mystically, Pearls symbolize the Moon, water, the center of creation, and the universe. The Pearl’s dramatic, unexpected appearance within an oyster has long inspired religious and magical lore. They take much less time to come into being than many other stones, but they have an advantage of being formed in their entirety in the water, which is a known purifier. Pearls, naturally, become tuned in to the phases of the Moon, which controls tidal changes. They have for a long time, been used to attract love and to spread loving vibrations. Pearl signifies faith, innocence, and charity, and they also can enhance personal integrity, helping to provide a focus to one’s attention. Pearl symbolizes purity and can stimulate that condition in one’s body and mind. They provide a clean channel for receipt of spiritual guidance and provide a clear vehicle for the advancing states of wisdom. Pearl can bring truth to a situation and loyalty to a certain cause. It has been known as a “stone of sincerity,” inhibiting boisterous behavior and providing a reflection of the self, helping one to see oneself “through others’ eyes.” The Pearl is feminine in nature, both in physical manifestation and in the fact that they contain an embryonic object within them (the grain of sand.) They are in tune with women, especially those who are pregnant. Pearl exudes a soothing influence, probably because of its roundness. A perfect sphere is a soft and soothing object by its nature. Pearl’s relation to female qualities also makes it very nurturing. If used properly, they can lessen stress.
Physical Uses: Pearls available today, in general, are cultivated in specially constructed saltwater environments, often in Japan. In these environments the water is warmer and more conducive to their development. Because of increasing ocean pollution in recent years, even Japanese Pearls have become less available. Natural Pearls are practically nonexistent because of the pollution worldwide in the waters. Pearls are used throughout the South Pacific by swimmers and divers to protect against shark attacks. Pearls are also said to be potent household guardians against fire. In various parts of the world at different times, Pearls have been used by their wearers to lengthen life, promote fertility, drive off demons, preserve health, instill courage, and lend physical strength. They have been used to relieve conditions of biliousness and bloating, to increase fertility and ease childbirth, and to treat the soft organs of the body. They can also help to treat digestive disorders. Pearl is absorbing by nature, so it should be used with caution, especially if one is feeling excessively negative while wearing a Pearl. It will hold that energy until it is worn again. At the same time, if one is feeling excessively positive, the Pearl will absorb that good energy, and store it within itself also. Pearl can help ease stress, and the conditions resulting from stress including: hypertension, headaches, and exhaustion. They may also help to prevent heart attacks and strokes, as well as aiding in digestion and reducing the chance of developing ulcers. Pearls are recommended for those in occupations as varied as artists, chiropractors, and farmers.
History: The Romans dedicated Pearls to Isis after the Goddess’ worship was brought to Rome from Ancient Egypt. In early Saxon religion, pearls were thought to be the congealed tears of the Goddess Freya. In ancient Syria, there was a Goddess called the Lady of Pearls. Throughout the Mediterranean, in fact, pearls were associated with various manifestations of the Goddess, the summation of all that is female, creative, and nurturing-the feminine aspect of life. In early Chinese belief, Pearls supposedly fell from the sky when dragons fought among the clouds (during storms). Dragons and Pearls are closely associated, even today, in Chinese thought.
Different Types: Black or Blue Pearls are thought to bring luck to the owner. Pink Pearls are worn to manifest an easy, comfortable life. Yellow Pearls are supposed to bring wealth, and Red Pearls promote intelligence.