Pronunciation: [pˈɜːl] (IPA) 
The word "pearl" is pronounced /pɜːrl/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of this word follows a typical English spelling pattern, with the "ea" representing the long "e" sound, while the "rl" at the end indicates a silent "r". It is important to note that the "a" in "pearl" should not be pronounced as a short "a" sound, as this would alter the word's meaning. Pearl is a precious gemstone often used in jewelry-making.
A pearl is a precious gem formed within the soft tissue of a living mollusk, primarily oysters and mussels, when an irritant such as a grain of sand or parasite enters its shell. It is composed of calcium carbonate in the form of aragonite crystals, which are arranged in concentric layers around the irritant, creating a lustrous and iridescent material. The size, shape, and color of a pearl vary depending on the species of mollusk and the environment it inhabits.
In addition to their stunning appearance, pearls hold great cultural and symbolic significance across various societies. They are often associated with purity, elegance, and wealth, making them highly sought after as jewelry and adornments throughout history. Pearls are commonly used to create necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings, adding a touch of sophistication to various accessories.
The value of a pearl is determined by several factors such as its size, shape, luster, color, and surface quality. Naturally occurring pearls are considered rare and are highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts. However, due to increased demand and limited supply, cultured pearls have become more prevalent in the market. These pearls are formed with human intervention by inserting an irritant into the mollusk, simulating the process that occurs naturally.
Pearls have been cherished for centuries for their exquisite beauty and unique formation, making them an enduring symbol of elegance and luxury in many cultures worldwide.
1. A concretion formed around a grain of sand or other foreign body within the shell of certain mollusks. 2. One of a number of small tough masses of mucus occurring in the sputum in asthma. 3. A small hollow sphere of thin glass containing amyl nitrite or other fluid for inhalation; the pearl is crushed in the handkerchief and its contents are inhaled.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• A hard, smooth, small body, of a white iridescent colour and round shape, found in species of oyster, and in other bivalves, highly valued for its beauty; figuratively, something very precious.
• Designating a small printing-type.
• To set or adorn with pearls; to resemble pearls.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "pearl" can be traced back to the Middle English word "perle", which comes from the Old French "perle" and the Latin "perla". The Latin word, in turn, is derived from the Sanskrit term "mukta" or "muktika", meaning "pearl". The ultimate origin of the word is uncertain, but it may have roots in ancient Indo-European languages.
