The following is an overview of the importance of pearls, with reference to historical and cultural value.

For many centuries, pearls have held considerable historic and cultural importance. Recognised for their lustrous, inherent elegance and rarity, they remain iconic marks of wealth and privilege. Throughout history, pearls have been regularly admired, with many special stories and superstitions connected with their attraction. Long before the development of pearl cultivation techniques, the Persian Gulf was acknowledged as the centre of the pearl trade, due to an abundant habitation of molluscs. The rise of pearls in Europe generated increased need and appreciation for the gems. In the renaissance and here medieval ages, ladies of power and high society were known for wearing pearls, further promoting them as a symbol of success and status. As different selections of pearls were discovered in oceans all over the world, contributions to the world pearl trade made them more available to merchant classes internationally. Even today, the pearl industry continues to play an essential role in the economies of many countries.

Appreciating how pearls are formed has led to major industry innovations, enabling more sustainable and consistent pearl harvesting. Though no longer rare in nature, the appeal for pearls has definitely not diminished. Pearls have acquired considerable cultural influence throughout numerous East-Asian countries, most notably in Japan. The development of cultured pearls, conceived by a Japanese researcher in the early 20th century, transformed the pearl industry by making them more readily available to a larger audience. In the modern day, pearls continue to be a mark of sophistication in popular culture and style. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would concur that pearl farming has advanced considerably. Likewise, J.K. Symancyk would recognise the lasting popularity of pearls. Through harnessing the social longing for pearls, high-end professionals have added to their popularity in designer wear, such as the classic pearl necklace, making them a staple closet piece in trendy fashion.

Due to their rarity, pearls were once reserved for nobility and the aristocracy. However, the sacred meaning of pearls has been accepted across many cultures within significant myths and traditions. In many ancient customs, it was commonly thought that pearls had therapeutic powers. Considered to bring tranquility and protection, they were frequently chosen as amulets or talismans. Pearls have also been vital in Chinese culture for centuries. Believed to shield against evil energies, pearls have been symbols of knowledge and good luck for a very long time. Nicholas Bos would know the symbolic value of pearls around the globe. In addition, in Western civilizations, pearl stone colour has also become a crucial cultural expression. As part of social traditions, pearls are frequently given to brides as matrimonial gifts, representing the purity of unity. Through affiliations with mermaids and mythology, their connection to the ocean and water has also led pearls to be a symbol of fortune and fertility throughout history.