June Birthstone: Pearl

Published: Jun 17, 2020

Author:

Heather Simpson

Those born in June have three birthstones to choose from! Pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone have all been dedicated to celebrations in June. While each option has a varied range in rarity, price, and appearance, the pearl is the most popular and traditional birthstone for June!

Pearl
The opalescent pearl is the most commonly worn gem for those born in June! Aside from being the June birthstone, they are used to create some of the most timeless and classic pieces. Pearls are associated with humility, innocence, and purity. During ancient times in the Middle East, peals were thought to be teardrops from heaven!

Pearls are the only gems produced by a living creature, which also makes them the only organic gem! Pearls are found growing in freshwater oysters or mussels all around the world in oceans, lakes, and rivers. They can be grown naturally or cultured. Cultured pearls come from farms where mollusks are cleaned, protected from predators, and harvested! Natural pearl beds have been diminished after thousands of years of pearl fishing and made way for cultured pearls to now be the most common.

Pearls form into round spheres as they grow and their shape helps determine their value. The rounder and more symmetrical they are then the higher the value. Pearls are commonly favored for their creamy ivory color, but they also form in a variety of other colors. You can find green, blue, yellow, black, pink, or purple cultured freshwater pearls! The most desired pearls have a natural luster that is reflective, providing a creamy white colorful iridescent hue.

There are several types of pearls throughout the world. Akoya pearls are found in China and Japan. South Sea pearls are found on the northern coast of Australia and then trail all the way to Indonesia and to the coast of Southeast Asia. Black Tahitian pearls are found in French Polynesia and Freshwater pearls are found mostly in China.

On the Mohs Scale of hardness, pearls are rated 2.5 to 3.0. Compared to most gems, pearls are considered very soft and need special care. The most important care advice is the “last on- first off” rule, meaning your pearl jewelry should always be the last thing you put on (after your perfume or hairspray), and the first thing you should take off when you get home. It is important to store pearls in isolated places to prevent them from being scratched or rubbed against. A pearl folder that’s lined with satin, silk, or velvet works best! To clean your pearls, dampen a soft cloth and lightly rub it over your pearls before drying them off with another soft towel. With proper care, pearls will last for decades and can be passed down as heirlooms!

Shop here: Sterling Silver Freshwater Pearl Bracelet