How the Pearl Necklace Plays a Role in Japanese Culture

Nov 17, 2020

Pearl Necklace as a part of Japanese culture

Good Health and Longevity

Pearls hold great significance in Japanese culture, where they have been treasured for centuries as a representation of purity and innocence. In ancient Japan, pearls were highly valued and often used as offerings to the gods, referred to as white gems. While personal adornment with jewelry was not as prevalent in traditional Japanese clothing like Kimonos, pearls were primarily used for general decoration, particularly in adorning the hair. Additionally, pearls were regarded as protective charms, utilized by fishermen as Omamori, or Japanese Amulets.

Within the realm of Japanese culture, pearls not only serve as exquisite and rare objects of beauty but also symbolize health and longevity. Their versatility makes them highly appealing, as they effortlessly complement any outfit. Pearl necklaces, in particular, hold significant value in Japanese customs. They are often gifted by parents and grandparents to convey their wishes for good health and happiness to their children and grandchildren. A pearl necklace string is considered a timeless and indispensable gift for significant milestones in one’s lifetime. Thus, pearls have become an integral part of Japanese cultural heritage.

Cultural Tradition

Pearl necklaces are often given when young women become independent or leave their hometown to study, work or marry.  It will serve as their adult accessory that they can use at social gatherings, academic conferences etc. From student to employment and adulthood. Thinking about various challenges when migrating into new spheres of influence – parents give pearl necklaces for good luck to their daughters so that they can use it on certain formal occasions such as weddings, meetings with business partners, company anniversaries and so on. Here in Singapore a pearl necklace is also chosen to the bride by their mother-in-law to convey positive thoughts and acceptance for Si Dian Jin (四点金) or as a traditional Chinese wedding gift – a set of jewelry, composed of pearl earrings, necklace, ring and bracelet. 

Given Japan’s long-standing jewelry culture, receiving a pearl necklace has profound meaning and is a long-standing cultural tradition for Japanese people who pass on their treasures from generation to generation. Japanese parents giving pearl jewelry to their daughters signifies love, bonding and blessings. Apart from handing down beloved pearl jewelry pieces to the next generation, many of our customers also purchase new pearl jewelry with contemporary designs for their daughters. 

Pearl Necklaces as Part of Japanese Cultures

Daily Use and Layered style

Some people might think pearl necklace is too formal and can’t used daily. But please try one single pearl necklace just on top of T-shirt. You will feel confident and it make you brighter. Layering style is also trendy now. Choker necklace with layered style long necklace to creates volume. Please try your choker necklace with pendant, chain necklace or long pearl necklace to add volume to your fashion and make the day special and make you look gorgeous.

Akoya Pearl Strand Necklace
Layered Pearl Necklace with Single Pearl Pendant
Station and Strand Necklaces Combined
Pearl Falco Necklace