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The history of natural
pearls |
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| Natural pearls are the product
of a mollusk’s natural defensive reaction against the invasion of
a foreign object, which it encapsulates in the tissue that forms mother-of-pearl.
This coincidence of nature is extremely rare, which is why natural
pearls have always been so precious. They were first recorded in China
more than 4,000 years ago. Natural pearls enjoyed a peak in the Roman
Empire, in which they signified luxury and social standing. In the
Middle Ages they filled the treasure troves of Spanish and Portuguese
conquerors, and adorned the nobility and the clergy. Artists, too,
were inspired by the jewel of the sea. |
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