Pearl: meaning, definitions and examples

A pearl is a smooth, lustrous object found inside the shell of a mollusk, often used in jewelry. It is prized for its natural beauty and elegance.

• She wore a necklace made of beautiful pearls.
• The pearl earrings complemented her dress perfectly.

A gem is a precious or semi-precious stone that is cut and polished for use in jewelry. Gems are valued for their rarity and beauty.

• The ring was set with a dazzling ruby gem.
• He gave her a necklace adorned with precious gems.

Jewel is a general term for precious stones and items of fine jewelry, often set in precious metals. It is usually associated with luxury and wealth.

• She wore an exquisite jewel-encrusted tiara.
• The museum displayed ancient jewels from various cultures.

Bead refers to small, rounded objects with holes in them, typically used in making jewelry, crafts, or decorations. They can be made of various materials, such as glass, wood, or plastic.

• She threaded colorful beads to create unique bracelets.
• The curtain was made of wooden beads.

Pearls are typically used to describe a specific type of gem found inside oysters. They can also metaphorically describe something very valuable or rare in a non-material context.

• She wore a beautiful pearl necklace to the event.
• Her advice was a pearl of wisdom.

Treasure typically refers to a collection of valuable objects like gold, silver, and other precious items. It conveys a sense of great value and can be used metaphorically for anything greatly loved or valued.

• They found a chest full of pirate treasure on the island.
• His grandfather's watch was a family treasure.

Gems refer to precious and semi-precious stones that are cut and polished for use in jewelry. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something or someone very special or excellent.

• He gave her a ring with a sparkling blue gem.
• The new employee is a real gem.

Jewels are valuable stones, often set in rings, necklaces, and other jewelry, highlighting their ornamental use. The term can also be used figuratively to describe something treasured or highly cherished.

• Her crown was adorned with jewels of every color.
• The quiet library was the jewel of the campus.

Use when referring to a shiny, typically white, precious object found inside oysters. Often used metaphorically to describe something rare and precious.

• She wore a beautiful pearl necklace.
• His advice was a pearl of wisdom.

Suitable for activities done for enjoyment and amusement, such as games, sports, or musical instruments. It can also refer to acting in a theater.

• Children love to play games during recess.
• She will play the lead role in the play.

Applicable when talking about carrying out an action, especially in a skilled or artistic way such as music, dance, or a play. Also used for other tasks requiring effort.

• The band will perform at the concert tonight.
• Doctors performed surgery successfully.

Use when talking about creating, manufacturing, or bringing something into existence, especially on a large scale or through a systematic process. Can also refer to agricultural products.

• The factory produces thousands of cars each year.
• Fresh produce is available at the local market.