PEARL

Etymology

The word 'pearl' originates from Latin 'perna' meaning leg or ham, which later evolved into 'perle' in Old French.

Definition

A pearl is a precious gemstone formed within the shells of certain mollusks, valued for its luster, beauty, and rarity. It is a smooth, rounded bead composed of aragonite or calcite, deposited in concentric layers as a protective coating around an irritating foreign object.

Historical Context

Pearls have been treasured for centuries and have been used as jewelry and adornments in various cultures. They were highly prized by ancient civilizations such as the Romans, Egyptians, and Chinese.

Cultural Significance

Pearls symbolize purity, innocence, and beauty in many cultures. They are often associated with luxury, elegance, and sophistication.

Related Concepts

• Mother-of-pearl: A material similar to pearl, found on the inner layer of mollusk shells.
• Cultured pearls: Pearls that are artificially grown in pearl farms.

See Also

• Mother-of-pearl
• Cultured pearls