World's Most Expensive Pearl Necklace
The History of Pearls
Pearls have been treasured for thousands of years, and they have been used in jewelry since ancient times. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all valued pearls, and they were often seen as symbols of wealth and status. In many cultures, pearls were believed to have magical properties and were used in medicine and religious ceremonies.
The Most Expensive Pearl Necklace
The most expensive pearl necklace in the world is the La Peregrina necklace, which is valued at $11 million. This necklace features a large pear-shaped pearl that was discovered off the coast of Panama in the 16th century. The pearl was owned by several Spanish kings, and it was eventually sold to Richard Burton, who gave it to his wife, Elizabeth Taylor.
The Pearl of Lao Tzu
The Pearl of Lao Tzu is another incredibly valuable pearl, with a value estimated at $40 million. This pearl was discovered off the coast of Palawan Island in the Philippines, and it is believed to be the largest pearl in the world, weighing in at 75 pounds. The pearl is named after the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, and it is said to have been discovered by a fisherman who kept it under his bed for ten years before realizing its value.
The Baroda Pearl Necklace
The Baroda Pearl Necklace is valued at $7.1 million and features 68 pearls that were once owned by the Maharaja of Baroda. The necklace was created by Cartier in 1927, and it is considered one of the most important pearl necklaces in the world. The pearls range in size from 9 to 16 millimeters, and they are all perfectly matched in color and luster.
The Mikimoto Pearl Necklace
The Mikimoto Pearl Necklace is valued at $2.7 million and features 27 perfectly matched pearls that were hand-selected by the founder of Mikimoto, Kokichi Mikimoto. The necklace was created in 1933 and was worn by Marilyn Monroe in the movie "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes." The necklace is considered a masterpiece of pearl jewelry and is highly sought after by collectors.
The Queen Mary's Pearl Necklace
The Queen Mary's Pearl Necklace is valued at $1.3 million and features a single strand of pearls that were given to Queen Mary as a wedding gift in 1893. The necklace is part of the Queen's personal collection and is considered one of the most valuable pieces of jewelry in the world. The pearls range in size from 5 to 12 millimeters, and they are all perfectly matched in color and luster.
The Importance of Pearls in Jewelry
Pearls have always been highly valued for their beauty and rarity, and they continue to be a popular choice for jewelry today. Pearls are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, from classic pearl necklaces to modern, edgy designs. They are also often used in combination with other gemstones to create unique and stunning pieces of jewelry.
In Conclusion
The world's most expensive pearl necklaces are truly remarkable pieces of jewelry that showcase the beauty and rarity of pearls. From the La Peregrina necklace to the Queen Mary's Pearl Necklace, each one is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship that is highly sought after by collectors and jewelry lovers around the world.
