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There’s a reason pearls have been adored for centuries—they capture the essence of elegance, mystery, and power in a way few gemstones can. From their use in royal courts to the wardrobes of modern fashion icons, pearls are a symbol of grace and sophistication. At EAR SASS, we’re proud to offer pearl jewellery sourced from responsible suppliers who prioritise sustainable and ethical practices.
We always knew we wanted to create jewellery featuring pearls. Being a Scottish company we wanted to pay homage to the history and tradition we have with this beautiful gem.
As early as the 12th century, Scottish rivers—especially the Tay and the Spey—were renowned for producing some of the finest freshwater pearls in Europe. These native pearls were so prized that they were used in the crowns and jewellery of Scottish royalty, including the original Sass Queen - Mary, Queen of Scots, who was famously depicted wearing multiple strands of pearls in her portraits.
Like ours, Mary's love for pearls was not just about adornment but also a statement of power and lineage. Pearls were seen as symbols of purity and authority, making them a staple in the jewellery collections of Scottish queens and noblewomen. Today, pearls are often worn by Scottish brides, following a tradition that dates back centuries, where pearls were believed to bring purity, luck, and protection on the wedding day. This is why our bridal collection features many of our pearl pieces.
But not all pearls are created equal. Let's dive into the different types of pearls, their meanings, and how to style them with intention.
Saltwater vs. Freshwater vs. Mother of Pearl: What’s the Difference?
Saltwater Pearls: Classic Elegance
Saltwater pearls, including Akoya, Tahitian, and South Sea pearls, are known for their brilliant lustre and perfectly round shapes. Harvested from oceans, they possess a natural iridescence that makes them ideal for statement pieces like single-strand necklaces or chandelier earrings. The South Sea pearls, in particular, with their golden or white hues, are synonymous with luxury and are often worn to make a bold yet refined impression.
Meaning: Saltwater pearls symbolise wisdom, wealth, and integrity—qualities that make them a timeless choice for both formal and business attire.
Freshwater Pearls: Playful and Versatile
In contrast, freshwater pearls are cultivated in rivers and lakes and come in a variety of shapes and pastel shades, from pink to lavender. Less uniform and more accessible than their saltwater counterparts, these pearls are perfect for creating boho-inspired layered necklaces or stackable rings like The Eva that add a touch of effortless chic to everyday outfits.
Meaning: Known for their calming properties, freshwater pearls are believed to help balance emotions and promote inner peace. They’re the go-to choice for those seeking a more relaxed, approachable style.
Mother of Pearl: Iridescent Charm
Derived from the inner shell of molluscs, Mother of Pearl offers a subtle glow with its pearlescent sheen. Unlike traditional pearls, Mother of Pearl pieces are typically flat, making them ideal for bold pendants, cuff bracelets, and delicate earrings like our Love Pearl huggie hoops. Its soft shimmer adds an ethereal touch to evening wear, capturing light beautifully without overwhelming your outfit.
Meaning: In crystal healing, Mother of Pearl is revered for its protective energy, believed to shield against negativity while enhancing intuition and imagination.
Pearls in Crystal Healing: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Beyond looking stunning, pearls are prized for their healing properties in crystal healing practices:
Emotional Balance: Wearing pearls is thought to calm the mind, soothe anxiety, and balance emotions—making them a thoughtful gift for someone going through a tough time.
Wisdom and Integrity: Symbolising purity and integrity, pearls are believed to help you make wise decisions.
Protection: Mother of Pearl, in particular, is said to act as a protective shield against negative energies.
This combination of beauty and purpose is what makes pearls such a powerful addition to any jewellery collection.
The Legacy of Pearls in Fashion: A Trend That Never Fades
Pearls have graced the necks of so many iconic females who have embodied all that we love here at EAR SASS from Cleopatra to Coco Chanel. In the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I’s fondness for pearls turned them into symbols of power and purity, adorning her in layers upon layers of them. Fast forward to the 1920s, and pearls became a symbol of modernity and rebellion, popularised by flapper girls and fashion icons like Coco Chanel, who famously declared, “A woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls.”
Today, pearls have been reimagined for the contemporary wardrobe—think asymmetrical necklaces, layered chokers, and mixed-metal pieces—proving they’re anything but old-fashioned.
How to Style Pearls for Any Occasion
For Work:
Opt for pearl stud earrings paired with a delicate pendant for a look that’s both polished and powerful. Pearls' refined lustre adds a touch of sophistication to professional attire without being overwhelming. Try The Pearly Queen.
For Casual Days:
Simple pearl studs like The World is your Oyster or huggies like The Harmony Mixed Metal hoops add a bit a fashion nod to a laid-back vibe. Their soft hues and organic shapes add a playful touch to casual outfits— get mindful and think relaxed trousers, flowy tops and a healthy glow.
For Evening Events:
Choose pearls for a more dramatic effect. A statement necklace or ring (The Eva obviously!) and oversized earrings with pearls can transform even the simplest black dress into something unforgettable.
Sourcing Pearls Responsibly: EAR SASS’s Commitment
At EAR SASS, we believe that beauty should never come at the cost of ethics. This includes ensuring that:
Marine habitats are protected to prevent overharvesting.
Fair wages are paid to farmers involved in the cultivation process.
Environmentally friendly methods are used to maintain the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems.
As with any natural product, each is unique. This means that some of our jewellery pieces may look slightly different from our photos!
