Natural pearls were highly valued in Edwardian jewellery for their unique beauty and rarity. Formed when an irritant enters a mollusk, these pearls exhibit distinct characteristics such as size, shape, luster, and color. During the Edwardian era (1901-1910), pearls symbolised purity and elegance, becoming a favoured choice in exquisite designs.
Today, natural pearls are exceedingly rare due to overfishing and environmental changes, which have significantly depleted the populations of mollusks that produce them. This scarcity has driven prices up, making natural pearls one of the most coveted gemstones in the market.
Their value in antique pieces is particularly pronounced, as they not only showcase historical craftsmanship but also represent a connection to a bygone era. Collectors and jewellery enthusiasts highly treasure these pearls, further enhancing the attraction and significance of antique jewellery featuring natural pearls.