Pure Pearls Glossary
Moti
The Hindi word for pearl, and in Vedic astrology the gemstone of the Moon, worn to strengthen Chandra.
In jyotish, pearl is the ratna of the Moon and is associated with emotional steadiness, sleep and calm.
It is traditionally set in silver rather than gold, worn on the little finger of the working hand, and put on for the first time on a Monday evening during the waxing moon.
Astrological practice usually specifies an untreated natural or cultured pearl of a stated minimum weight, with no dye and no drilling through the visible face.
When you are buying
If a pearl is for astrological use, say so before you buy. The requirements on treatment, drilling and metal are specific, and a piece chosen for looks will often not meet them.
Pearls for astrological wear
16 pieces in the collection right now, from ₹7,700.
5.5 Carats - 9 Ratti genuine south sea pearl
6 Carats - 9.6 Ratti genuine south sea pearl for astrology ring
6.2 Carats, 10.25 Ratti, Blemish free south sea pearl for finger ring
5 Carats (8 Ratti) Certified South Sea Pearl for Astrology Finger Ring
5 to 5.5 Carats - 8 to 8.5 Ratti - White South Sea Pearl for Astrology Finger ring
8.65 Carat - 13.8 Ratti genuine south sea pearl for finger ring
9.05 Carats, 14.4 Ratti Blemish free south sea pearl for finger ring
Very large single original south sea pearl for pendant or finger ring - 14.9mm
Read next
Dosham-Free Pearl
A pearl free of the specific flaws that Vedic astrology considers inauspicious — cracks, pits, spots and irregular colour.
Finger Ring
A ring set with a pearl, usually a single dome-backed or button pearl in a protective setting.
South Sea Pearl
The largest commercially grown pearl, from the gold-lipped or silver-lipped oyster. Typically 9mm to 16mm, white to deep gold.
Keshi Pearl
A pearl that forms by accident with no nucleus at all, so it is solid nacre. Irregular in shape and unusually bright.
Not sure what you are being sold?
Paste any pearl description — another shop’s listing, a message from a jeweller, an old certificate — and we will break it down term by term.