Pearl tells the story of the arrival of thepearl in the West, its enchanting mythology, man's fascination with itsorigins, and the role it has played in jewelry and art throughout the ages. Italso explores the significance and impact the pearl has had on differentcultures: how it was believed to possess medicinal and talismanic powers, andmystical symbolism. With gorgeous color illustrations of brooches, pendants,and hundreds of other collectibles gathered from cathedrals, museums andprivate collections, this book takes the reader on a visual tour of lavishdesign through the ages.