In our family, pearls hold a special meaning of union. My Mom always said she wanted a ‘simple pearl’ for an engagement ring. Now, if you knew Althea, she was a “more is more," with elegance goddess. Her motto was “Don’t do what you can’t over do!” She believed that there was always something that can be added to make everything special and unique.
Pearls represent purity, wisdom, innocence, and emotional balance. They are associated with the feminine energy that is in all of us. Pearls are grace and elegance.
Pearls are soft gems, but they have had a hard shell to grow and survive. We all have, have had, or will have a bit of a shell for our own protection. This is a reminder that WE are the gem within.
Pearls are wonderful to wear, to hold, and to look at. The colors vary from white to gold to purple to black, and all the shades in between. They remind us that all are beautiful just for existing. Just like every soul here on earth right now - all colors, shapes and sizes, we are all gems!
Pearls are grown in oysters as a defense mechanism against irritants. When a grain of sand gets trapped inside, the immune system of the oyster kicks in! A calcium carbonate coating forms layers and layers over the irritant, this continues as long as the oyster is alive.
The growth of a pearl is such a good reminder of our own spiritual growth. We expand and grow faster when we are pushed into uncomfortable situations. When a situation gets to a certain point, we choose to expand or retreat. We can push our own limits of comfort and love to expand into a new self.
Learning to love in every experience is one of the lessons of life—even loving the irritant that has brought a growth opportunity to us.
How many times have I had to learn that lesson? More times than I would like to admit. I am learning a little bit quicker now. As I age, I am expanding, I am allowing, I am shifting. It is easier to type these words than to live them.
I am able to recognize some people and experiences are placed in my path so I can learn. “I kinda want to stop learning for a little bit!” When I feel this way, I know a growth experience is on its way!
So, if you are wondering if Mom got a simple pearl for her engagement ring… no, she didn’t.
Dad and Mom went to the jeweler with the intention of buying the a pearl engagement ring. The jeweler, a smart salesman, told them that their union would outlast a pearl! They needed a strong diamond to solidify the union. They had a marriage of 60 years filled with love, dancing, joy, and laughter.
My Mom said at their 25th wedding anniversary party that they had 23 great years… “You know, an off weekend here, a day there...”
I imagine them dancing their way around heaven every day.
Annapolis Crystals has a limited selection of freshwater pearls available for sale starting at just $6 each. Visit us in-store to browse our selection and feel free to call the shop with any questions. (240) 886-3304
Cover image photo from The Pearl Dude.