What do cultured and real pearls symbolize in the mr know all?

In W. Somerset Maugham's "Mr. Know-All," cultured and real pearls symbolize the duality of appearance versus reality. The cultured pearls, representing artifice and superficiality, contrast with the authentic pearls, which signify authenticity and value. This distinction highlights the themes of perception, judgment, and the complexities of human relationships, as characters navigate their social identities and moral integrity. Ultimately, the pearls serve as metaphors for the characters' true selves, revealing deeper truths beneath their exteriors.