Symbolism in "The Pearl"

In the story, the pearl represents an opportunity for a better life, something everybody in the story desires. The pearl also brings out many human characteristics in the story's characters. In Kino, the pearl brings out bravery. The opportunity that the pearl gives Kino is something he is willing to do anything to protect, even stand up to the Capital. In Juana, the pearl brings out fear. Juana believes that the pearl is a curse that has brought bad luck upon her family, such as when Kino was almost mugged, and she wishes to throw it away. The pearl brings out curiousity in Kino's neighbors who are constantly surrounding his house trying to learn about the news of his pearl. However, in the doctor, the priest, and the townspeople, the pearl only brings out greed. When they hear of Kino's pearl, there heads fill with selfish thoughts of what they would do with the pearl. They even think of ways to steal or cheat Kino out of his pearl. The pearl has effected every character in a different way. I believe it has only hurt Kino and his family and has poisoned the town where they live. Even though the pearl symbolizes opportunity, this story proves that it is not always a good thing.