What does pearls of price in Medieval literature mean?

"Pearls of price" is a common phrase used in medieval literature to refer to something of great value or worth, often in the context of spiritual or heavenly virtues or treasures. It is a metaphorical expression derived from the imagery of pearls being precious gems that are highly prized and sought after. Here are a few examples of how "pearls of price" is used in medieval literature:

1. Gawain and the Green Knight: In the Middle English poem "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight," the phrase appears in a description of the Green Knight's armor:

> "His hauberk all of green hue, / Its hems with pearls of price."

Here, "pearls of price" refers to the valuable gems adorning the Green Knight's armor, adding to its splendor and majesty.

2. The Pearl: In the medieval allegorical poem "The Pearl," the phrase "pearl of great price" is used multiple times to symbolize the speaker's search for and longing to reunite with his lost pearl, which represents the purity and perfection he seeks in his spiritual journey.

3. The Canterbury Tales: In "The Pardoner's Tale" from Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," the Pardoner uses the phrase "pearl of price" in a metaphorical sense to caution the listeners about false relics, stating that "many a false relik hath man yfound / That hath in it no virtue nor no grace, / But only the smeel of the 'preciouse' stones, / Of pearl, or riby, or of lign aloes."

In this passage, "pearls of price" are contrasted with the deceptiveness of fake relics and convey the importance of discerning true value and authenticity.

Overall, "pearls of price" in medieval literature represents something precious, valuable, and highly esteemed, often alluding to spiritual treasures, purity, heavenly virtues, or worldly gems.