Pearl is a timeless name with a rich history and elegant connotations. Derived from the Old French “perle,” which in turn comes from the Latin “perna” (meaning leg, in reference to the leg-of-mutton shape of an oyster shell), Pearl has been a beloved name for centuries.

Origin: The name Pearl has English origins but has been used across various cultures.

Meaning: Pearl literally refers to the precious gemstone formed within an oyster. Metaphorically, it represents something rare, fine, admirable, and valuable.

Popularity: Pearl enjoyed immense popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It saw a decline in the mid-20th century but has been experiencing a resurgence in recent years. As of 2023, it ranks in the top 1000 names for girls in the United States.

Inspiration: The name Pearl is often chosen for its association with purity, rarity, and natural beauty. It can also be inspired by:

• The June birthstone
• Literary characters like Pearl from Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter”
• The oceanic theme, appealing to parents who love the sea
• Its vintage charm, fitting the trend of reviving classic names