I've never heard of that. However, an actual string of real pearls is pretty expensive so I think by default there is a certain permanence associated with them and the fact that they are a gift from a boyfriend. It's not a gift to be received willy-nilly no matter the relationship.
When I got mine my husband said I had reached the age where I should wear pearls. Take that for what it's worth, but he's no longer my husband
