Different pearls have different meanings, from good luck to innocence and marital bliss and even preventing crying, the mystique of pearls adds greatly to their appeal.

Traditional white pearls, glowing in color and perfectly spherical, have represented the moon.

In Eastern cultures see the pearl as symbolising certain elements of spirituality. They believe that in wearing a pearl a person is constantly reminded to be honest, to remain dignified and to seek knowledge.

A white pearl symbolizes these things, as well as purity and innocence - this is why it is the traditional wedding pearl.

However Black and Golden pearls have their own meanings too. They are symbolic of success, riches in life, wealth and prosperity.

A pink or a "rose" pearl represents the heart, while all pearls are supposed to encourage wellness and health of body and mind.

Pearls, like many other gems, are also a birthstone. The month of June is the pearl's official month, making the gift of pearls the ideal gift for a daughter on her 21st birthday, as well as for the mother of the child to pass on in later years.

In Christianity the pearl is believed to be a symbol of Jesus Christ, with numerous references to pearls throughout the bible, none more well known than the phrase "The pearly gates" of heaven.

Around the world pearls have different positive meanings, but one of the most interesting is Japan, where only the salt water pearls are considered to hold any significant meaning; they are the luckiest and pearls and are therefore the most popular in the Japanese pearl markets.

Whether or not you believe in the various meanings of different pearls you cannot argue with their beauty and their symbolic value in ceremonies such as weddings and anniversaries.