Who could believe that a precious pearl begins its life as a tiny particle inside a mollusk. Layer by layer, what to an oyster is an irritant, is gradually transformed into an object of desire. Perhaps this wondrous process, conducted deep in the heart of the ocean, is why natural pearls have come to symbolize purity and marital bliss.

The Hindu book of the Rigveda details how Krishna, the preserver of life, plunged into the sea to retrieve a pearl for his daughter on her wedding day. The ancient Romans believed pearls could promote marital joy and their artwork often depicted the bond between Cupid and Psyche as a strand of natural pearls. For those romantics who honor Aphrodite, the goddess of love, legend holds that she was born of the sea and turned drops of water into pearls.

Diving for this jewel of the sea began many centuries ago, with many risking their lives to bring the lustrous creations to the surface. Among the first civilizations to be attracted to pearls were those of the Middle East, India and China.

And for the pleasure of owning the most exclusive, the rich and famous have always paid the very highest price. A strand of Australian South Sea pearls sold at auction in l993 for a record $2.25 million.

For those of us who can't afford the finest, even a simple strand will do. No young woman feels more alive than when she has her very own pearls. A family heirloom handed down from mother to daughter is an emotional coming of age.

For brides the inspiration of the Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn-style choker offers classic simplicity.

For the prom, a delicate pair of pearl and diamond earrings are offset by dramatic hair, swept high onto the head.

A pearl will always oblige with a finishing touch. The right gem can make the difference between "lovely" and "breathtaking".

Fame & Fortune

Types of Pearls