June is one of the only months with more than one birthstone, but pearl remains the most classic and beloved choice. At Lilliane’s Jewelry, we love that pearl is the only gemstone created by a living creature rather than formed within the earth, and clients in our Leawood showroom are often surprised to learn just how many varieties exist.
Born From the Sea
A pearl forms when an irritant, such as a grain of sand or a parasite, becomes lodged inside an oyster or mollusk. The creature responds by coating the irritant in layers of nacre, the same iridescent substance that lines the inside of its shell. Over months or years, those layers build up to form a pearl.
Natural vs. Cultured Pearls
Truly natural pearls, formed entirely by chance in the wild, are exceptionally rare and valuable today. The vast majority of pearls sold are cultured, meaning a technician intentionally inserts an irritant into a mollusk to jump-start the process. Cultured pearls are still genuine pearls, made of real nacre, just with a little help from human hands.
A Rainbow of Varieties
Pearls come in more colors and styles than many people realize. Akoya pearls from Japan are prized for their bright white color and mirror-like shine. Tahitian pearls grow in naturally dark shades of gray, green, and even peacock. South Sea pearls are the largest and rarest, often in warm white or golden hues. Freshwater pearls, grown in mussels rather than oysters, offer excellent value and a wide range of shapes and colors.
Caring for Your Pearls
Pearls rank just 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them one of the softest gemstones used in fine jewelry. They are sensitive to acids, perfumes, and even the natural oils in your skin. We always recommend putting on your pearls last, after applying makeup, perfume, and hairspray, and wiping them gently with a soft cloth after each wear.
Lilliane’s Tip: Pearls need to breathe. Store them separately in a soft pouch rather than sealed in an airtight container, and give them a light freshwater wipe every so often to help maintain their luster over the years.
Quick Facts About Pearl
- Mohs Hardness: 2.5 to 4.5
- Color Range: White, cream, pink, silver, gray, and black
- Symbolism: Purity, wisdom, and new beginnings
- Zodiac Connection: Gemini and Cancer
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I wear pearls every day?
Pearls can be worn often, but because they are soft and sensitive to chemicals, they are better suited to occasional wear rather than rough daily activities like exercise or housework.
Q: How do I know if my pearls are real?
Genuine pearls typically feel slightly gritty when rubbed gently against your teeth, while imitation pearls feel smooth. A trusted jeweler can also confirm authenticity for you.
Visit Us in Leawood
Whether you were born in June or simply appreciate pearl’s timeless elegance, we invite you to visit our Leawood showroom to see our pearl collection and find the strand or piece that is right for you.
