According to ancient Polynesian legends handed down from one generation to the next, Ancients believed that Tahitian pearls were the first cases of light, which were given by the Creator to Tane –God of Harmony and Beauty. Tahitian pearls illuminated the vault of heaven with their light.
Their form and brightness inspired Tane to create the stars. Tane then brought the pearls to Rua Hatu — God of the Ocean in order for him to lighten his domain. Oro — God of War and Peace, working for Tane, entrusted human women whom he coveted to conceive his descendants, with the first pearls, as tokens of love. With the achievement of his work complete, he gave “Te ufi” – pearl oysters to humans, in memory of his voyage on earth. Ever since, the pearl oyster “Te ufi — Pinctada Margaritifera, has thrived in the lagoons of French Polynesia.
In Polynesian culture, the first two mythical pearls, which were given to a princess on earth by Oro — God of war and peace, were Poe Rava — the extraordinary peacock colored pearl and Poe Konini — the sculptural circled pearl.
Another myth says that Okana and Uaro – the spirits of Coral and Sand –both adorned Te Ufi with a glistening cloak that utilizing all the hues of every fish that swam the Polynesian seas. For thousands of years the glory of the heavens has come to rest in the secret hollow of the iridescent mother-of-pearl, as a gift from the sky to the sea.
Another dreamy and romantic story about the Tahitian black pearl speaks of how the moon bathes the ocean with its light to attract the oysters. When they come to the ocean surface, the moon bestows heavenly dew upon each one of them. In time, the drop of heavenly dew is polished and shrouds itself in garments with blue, green, gold, and pink shining in the colors of Tahitian pearls.
There are many myths and legends that attribute the black pearls with various powers from being a healer to cupid and even a gift of God. In ancient times, the Tahitian black pearl was a jewel worn only by royalty and hence came to be known as the Pearl of Queens and the Queen of Pearls.
Born in French Polynesia’s South Pacific seas, the Tahitian pearl is a reflection of the beauty of Polynesia. A Tahitian pearl’s surface reflects the shimmering quality of the luminous Polynesian waters and its forms and curves are suggestions of sensuality and passion. Created in the legendary South Seas, fine Tahitian cultured pearls boast all of the colors and shapes that one can dream of. Since its discovery, the Tahitian pearl has conjured purity, sensuality, exclusivity, and mystery. It is no wonder then that for hundreds of years, men and women have traveled the world to French Polynesia in search of the elusive Tahitian pearl. A symbol of purity and elegance, the Tahitian pearl enchants and captivates all who behold it.
The mollusk variety which produces Tahitian pearls is called the Pinctada Margaritifera, aptly named after the Latin “margarita” for treasure. Only about 30% of nucleated mollusks will produce a successful pearl and only 1 % will be of gem quality. The quality of a pearl depends on many factors, including water temperature and purity, nacre thickness, and the experience level of the grafter. Yet, none of these is as important as the health of the Tahitian pearl-bearing Pinctada Margaritifera mollusks, which thrive only in one location on earth: the pristine lagoons of French Polynesia.
What does a pearl symbolize?
Pearls are the ultimate symbol for wisdom. Valued for their calming effects, pearls represent serenity, while being able to strengthen valuable relationships and convey a sense of safety. Pearls also symbolize purity, as well as integrity and loyalty.
What is the spiritual meaning of pearls?
Pearls represent wisdom gained through experience. The gems of the sea are believed to offer protection to the wearer, as well as attract good luck and wealth. Moreover, pearls speak of the wearer’s purity and integrity.
Are pearls lucky?
Pearls are often offered as a token of affection and love, as well as good luck. Moreover, various myths place pearls as symbols of good fortune and wealth.
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