One bridal tradition that remains consistent is wearing pearls. The Greeks believed that pearls symbolize love, happiness and purity. They also believed that wearing pearls would take away the bride’s tears to ensure marital harmony.

Historically, every culture placed high value on pearls even during abundant supplies. Woman of modest and substantial means draped themselves in pearls, sometimes from head to toe. In 15th century Europe, women wore hairnets (called “frets”) of gold threads adorned with pearls. In southern Russia, Jewish women owned black velvet caps embroidered with pearls. In both instances, these pearl- adorned pieces were considered significant enough to serve as legacy bequeaths for daughters.

Pearl’s historical symbolism is their ability to stabilize negative thoughts and feelings like anger, depression and pessimism.