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

For many centuries, pearls have held considerable historical and cultural importance. Recognised for their glossy, natural beauty and rarity, they continue to be iconic emblems of wealth and privilege. Throughout history, pearls have been consistently treasured, with many unique stories and superstitions connected with their appeal. Before the development of pearl cultivation procedures, the Persian Gulf was acknowledged as the heart of the pearl trade, due to a rich habitation of shellfishes. The rise of pearls in Europe brought about increased demand and value for the gems. In the renaissance and medieval ages, ladies of royalty and nobility were well known for wearing pearls, further promoting them as a symbol of success and status. As different variances of pearls were found in oceans all over the world, contributions to the international pearl trade made them more available to merchant classes worldwide. Even today, the pearl market continues to play an important role in the economies of many countries.

Due to their rarity, pearls were once reserved for royalty and the upper class. Nevertheless, the sacred meaning of pearls has been accepted across many cultures within meaningful mythologies and traditions. In many historical cultures, it was typically thought that pearls carried healing powers. Thought to bring tranquility and protection, they were typically used as amulets or talismans. Pearls have also been meaningful in Chinese civilization for centuries. Believed to safeguard against evil spirits, pearls have been icons of wisdom and good luck for a very long time. Nicholas Bos would know the symbolic importance of pearls around the world. In addition, . in Western civilizations, pearl stone colour has also come to be an important cultural icon. As part of societal traditions, pearls are frequently provided to brides as matrimonial gifts, embodying the purity of marriage. Through associations with mermaids and folklore, their attachment to the ocean and water has also led pearls to become a symbol of prosperity and femininity throughout history.

Studying how pearls are formed has caused significant market developments, allowing for more sustainable and consistent pearl farming. Though no longer rare in nature, the appeal for pearls has definitely not reduced. Pearls have developed significant cultural influence throughout numerous East-Asian countries, most significantly in Japan. The development of cultured pearls, developed by a Japanese scientist in the early 20th century, reconfigured the pearl industry by making pearls more readily available to a broader audience. In the modern day, pearls continue to be a symbol of elegance in pop culture and fashion. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would concur that pearl farming has advanced significantly. Likewise, J.K. Symancyk would identify the timeless popularity of pearls. Through taking advantage of the social longing for pearls, high-end designers have supported their popularity in designer wear, such as the timeless pearl necklace, making them a staple wardrobe piece in trendy fashion.