It’s timeless – like love, really; the combination of the most important day in your life and pearls has echoed down the years. Traditionally considered the wedding gem, pearl jewellery is traditionally presented by the Father of the Bride or the Groom and has come over time to symbolise love, virtue, spirituality and prosperity.
The association of pearls for weddings is believed to originate from India, several thousand years ago when a father collected pearls from the sea to present to his daughter on her wedding day. The ancient Greeks also believed that pearls should be part of the wedding experience. They considered pearls would help ensure marital bliss and prevent newly-wed brides from crying.
Choosing a pearl for a wedding day is both easy and difficult. Easy because there is nowadays a wide range of pearl jewellery available at all prices. Difficult because there is nowadays a wide range of pearl jewellery available at all prices. Weddings are an increasingly expensive event, but there is no need to let that stop pearls being bought for the wedding day.
A South Sea Cultured Pearl 12/14mm necklace can cost around £15,000 – it’s a gift to last for all time, a truly memorable memento of an unforgettable day. It will become the family heirloom handed down to generations of brides on their most important day.
However, AAA grade freshwater pearls are stunning too, and starting at around £300, make an affordable option.
Pearl necklaces are not the only option. Pearl earrings are available in a variety of styles, stunning in combination with gold and a practical as well as pertinent present. The bride can wear them on almost any occasion afterwards – from formal to girls’ night out.
Bridesmaids deserve a thank you too for the hard work they do – as much beforehand as on the day itself. Again, there are many ways to make pearl say ‘thank you’. For instance, a 9ct yellow gold drop pearl pendant makes an affordable present that will be worn for years to come.
The tradition continues – renewed by the wide range of pearl jewellery now available for every bride to make her own.