How pearls can be a man's best friend

Pearls have been cherished as some of the most valuable gemstones for centuries. Traditionally, pearl jewelry symbolized power and status, often worn by queens and women of high rank. This exclusive fashion statement was once reserved solely for women, but recent trends in fashion have sparked a new wave.

Today, men confidently embrace pearl jewelry, incorporating it into their style with ease. If you’re curious about how to get started, here’s a guide to pearl jewelry for men.

Jewelry can hold meaning, but you don’t need to wear pearls for their symbolism; wear them simply because you like them.

However, if you appreciate sentimental pieces, pearls are a great choice. Pearls symbolize wisdom, protection, serenity, innocence, enlightenment, and longevity, and are often associated with good luck.

Where are pearls coming from?

Pearls are unique among gemstones because of their natural formation process. They are created by marine oysters and mussels as a defense mechanism. When a foreign substance enters their shells, they secrete layers of aragonite and conchiolin—the same materials that form their shells—to produce a pearl.

The historical significance of pearls as emblems of status

Pearls have been symbols of status for thousands of years, with records of Chinese royalty receiving them as gifts as early as 2300 BC. Julius Caesar even enacted a law that restricted pearl-wearing to the ruling class. Over time, pearls remained popular among royalty, particularly in Tudor England, where they were so beloved that the era became known as "the Pearl Age."

Where do pearls originate from?

Freshwater pearls are produced by mollusks like clams, oysters, and mussels, while saltwater pearls are rarer and larger, with each oyster typically forming only one pearl in its lifetime.

Pearls develop as a natural defense against irritants, such as parasites, that threaten the mollusk. They consist of aragonite and conchiolin, the same materials found in the mollusk's shell. Over time, these substances layer around the irritant, forming nacre, or mother-of-pearl.

In pearl farming, an irritant is intentionally introduced to stimulate pearl formation. Thus, a genuine pearl is essentially a bacteria that could harm the mollusk but is instead protected.

The uniqueness and value of pearls can vary greatly depending on the specific irritant encapsulated within.

Crafting pearls into jewelry

Transforming pearls into jewelry requires patience, as pearl formation can take up to two years, contributing to their high price. Extracting pearls is delicate; harvesters carefully open oysters and use surgical tools to avoid harm.

Ethical sourcing is essential to prevent injury to the oyster, allowing it to produce more pearls.

Once extracted, pearls undergo five steps: cleaning, sorting, drilling, matching, and threading.

In the cleaning phase, pearls are treated to remove residue and enhance luster. They are then sorted by size, shine, appearance, and shape, which affect their value.

Next, holes are drilled for silk threading in bracelets or necklaces, followed by matching pearls of similar size and color, a time-consuming task. Finally, they are strung onto temporary threads before being sold to jewelers.

Pearls can be used in various jewelry styles, such as pendants, studs, or hoops, but the process remains the same.

Why Are Pearls Popular Today?

Historically, pearls were primarily worn by women due to their elegant appearance. Recently, however, there has been a shift among men embracing pearl jewelry.

Celebrity Influence

Male celebrities are increasingly donning traditionally feminine clothing, helping to blur gender lines. Now, men wear pearl necklaces and bracelets just as frequently as women. Notable figures like A$AP Rocky, Harry Styles, Pharrell, and Tyler the Creator have showcased pearls on platforms from runways to the Grammys.

A Modern Twist on Tradition

Today's men are not limited to classic pearl strands reminiscent of older generations. Modern designs often feature diamonds or are paired with gold chains, giving pearls a fresh edge.Jewelers are now exploring innovative styles, colors, and textures, making pearls versatile for any aesthetic.

Wearing pearls with style

Men’s pearl necklaces often feature a more rugged design, giving them a masculine edge. For instance, Hollywood figures frequently wear pearl chokers instead of traditional necklaces for a grunge look.

Modern styles may include spikes between pearls or combine them with gold or stainless steel bands, like the Diamond Pearl Chain or Pearl Chain with Diamond Crosses.

Sporting pearls with flair 

Men and pearls were once seen as incompatible, but with changing gender norms and celebrity influence, men can—and should—wear pearl jewelry to make a statement. Pearls are luxurious and eye-catching accessories.

Men's pearl jewelry often has a more masculine touch, frequently paired with diamonds, gold, or other metals. Regardless of your style, pearls will elevate your look.