Pearls: June's Timeless Treasure

June babies are truly fortunate - they have not one, but three beautiful birthstones to choose from: pearls, alexandrite, and moonstone. However, pearls remain the most beloved and classic choice for June birthdays. At our family jewelry store, we've witnessed countless special moments involving pearls, from graduation gifts to wedding day accessories, and we're always excited to share the fascinating story behind these ocean gems.

Nature's Perfect Creation

Unlike other gemstones that form deep within the earth, pearls are created by living creatures in the water. When an irritant enters an oyster or mussel, the mollusk secretes layers of nacre (mother-of-pearl) around it, eventually forming the lustrous pearl we treasure. This natural process can take several years, making each pearl a true marvel of nature.

The quality of a pearl is determined by several factors: luster (the shine and reflection), surface quality, shape, size, and color. The most prized pearls have a deep, mirror-like luster that seems to glow from within, with smooth surfaces and round shapes, though baroque (irregularly shaped) pearls have their own unique charm.

Types of Pearls We Love

Freshwater Pearls: Cultivated in freshwater lakes and rivers, these pearls offer beautiful luster and come in a variety of natural colors including white, pink, lavender, and peach. They're often more affordable while still maintaining excellent quality.

Akoya Pearls: These classic saltwater pearls from Japan are known for their perfectly round shape and exceptional luster. They typically range from white to cream with overtones of rose, silver, or cream.

South Sea Pearls: Among the largest and most luxurious pearls, these gems from Australia and the Philippines are prized for their size and satiny luster. They naturally occur in shades of white, silver, and golden.

Tahitian Pearls: Often called "black pearls," these exotic gems from French Polynesia actually display a spectrum of dark colors including green, blue, purple, and bronze overtones.

A Symbol Throughout History

Pearls have been treasured for over 4,000 years, long before other gemstones were even discovered. Ancient civilizations believed pearls were tears of the gods or dewdrops filled with moonlight. In many cultures, pearls symbolized purity, wisdom, and integrity.

Throughout history, pearls have adorned royalty and celebrities alike. From Cleopatra's legendary pearl earrings to Audrey Hepburn's iconic strand in "Breakfast at Tiffany's," pearls have maintained their status as the epitome of elegant sophistication.

Caring for Your Precious Pearls

Pearls are organic gems that require special care to maintain their beauty. The nacre that gives pearls their luster is relatively soft and can be damaged by acids, heat, and harsh chemicals. Here's how to keep your pearls looking beautiful:

Daily Care:

• Put pearls on last when getting dressed, after applying makeup and perfume
• Wipe gently with a soft, damp cloth after wearing to remove oils and dirt
• Store pearls separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching
• Keep them in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box

What to Avoid:

• Never store pearls in airtight containers - they need moisture to prevent cracking
• Avoid contact with cosmetics, hair spray, perfume, and cleaning products
• Don't use ultrasonic cleaners, steamers, or harsh chemicals
• Remove pearls before swimming, exercising, or showering

Professional Care:

• Have pearl strands restrung every few years if worn regularly
• Check clasps and settings annually for security
• Professional cleaning can restore luster when needed

Classic Pearl Jewelry Styles

Pearls offer versatility that few other gems can match. They're equally at home with casual daywear and formal evening attire:

• Pearl strand necklaces - The ultimate classic, available in various lengths from chokers to opera length
• Pearl stud earrings - Perfect for everyday elegance and professional settings
• Pearl and diamond combinations - Adding sparkle while maintaining sophistication
• Pearl bracelets - Delicate single strands or bold multi-strand designs
• Modern pearl jewelry - Contemporary settings that give traditional pearls a fresh look

The Perfect June Birthday Gift

Giving pearls as a gift carries deep meaning. They represent wisdom gained through experience, making them perfect for graduations, milestone birthdays, or any moment when you want to honor someone's growth and achievements. For June babies, pearls offer a birthstone that they can wear and enjoy throughout their lives.

Whether you choose classic white Akoya pearls for their timeless appeal, or exotic Tahitian pearls for someone who loves unique pieces, pearls make gifts that will be treasured for generations.

June's Other Beautiful Birthstones

While pearls are the star, June babies can also choose from:

Alexandrite: Known as the "emerald by day, ruby by night" for its remarkable color-changing properties, alexandrite is one of the rarest and most valuable gemstones.

Moonstone: With its ethereal glow and mystical appearance, moonstone displays a phenomenon called adularescence - a billowy light that moves across the stone's surface.

Visit Us for Your June Birthstone Needs

As a family-owned jewelry store, we understand that choosing the perfect piece is about more than just the gemstone - it's about finding something that speaks to your heart. Our pearl collection includes carefully selected pieces at various price points, from classic starter sets to heirloom-quality strands.

We're always happy to help you understand pearl quality, try on different styles, and find the perfect piece for any June birthday celebration. Come discover why pearls have remained the ultimate symbol of timeless elegance for thousands of years.

Visit us at Skatell's to explore our beautiful pearl collection and learn more about June's stunning birthstones. Our experienced staff is here to help you find the perfect piece or answer any questions about pearl care and selection.