A Royal Affair: Pearls

Probably the most loved gem of all time, pearls are the only precious stones found within living creatures. It takes such a long time for a natural pearl to be creates; and such special circumstances should be met. Prized for their uniqueness and their lovely luster, pearls are loved since the ancient times and still adored by many. Still, there’s no denying that royal families of the world seem to love this gem above any and more than anyone.

Starlight Pearl & Lapis Lazuli Necklace

“Pearls are traditional for Queens going back one thousand years — there has never been a Queen who didn’t wear pearls.” Leslie Field, author of The Queen’s Jewels

Pearls have been worn by royal dynasties for centuries. One of the first examples of pearl jewelry worn dates back to 420 BC. Guess by who? Yep, a Persian Princess.

Dome Pearl & Turquoise Earrings

Freshwater pearls found in China’s Huai River were considered an excellent choice of gift for Chinese dynasty.

They were so rare and unique; a true statue symbol in Roman Empire so Julius Caesar even passed a law prohibiting non-royals to wear pearls.

It’s no surprise that European royal families were drawn to this special gem as well, symbolizing purity, magnificence and generosity.

Azure Blue Topaz and Baroque Pearl Earrings

Pearls have a thousand year long tradition for royal family, started with Queen Victoria. She gave each of her daughters and granddaughters a pearl every year on their birthdays, meaning by the time they’re 18, they each will have enough gem stones for a strand of pearl necklace. This tradition was continued by the Queen’s own father George IV, who gave her daughters two pearls for each birthday.

Perhaps the most iconic royal pearl jewelry of all time is Elizabeth II’s three stand necklace, given to her by her late grand father George V in his Silver Jubilee in 1935.

Classics No.1 Pearl Necklace & Levi Necklace

The Queen has a vast collection of royal jewelry but for special occasions like her wedding day in 1947, she mostly choses to wear pearls. Believed to be symbolizing prosperity as well, what other gem stone suits her most than pearls?

Click to explore our pearl collection.