June Birthstone Infographic Pearl Jewelry

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Pearl June Birthstone

History:
The Latin word for pearl means "unique" which supports the fact that no two pearls are identical. For thousands of years, pearls have been admired for their beauty and rarity all over the globe. June's birthstone is believed to be a symbol of the moon and to possess magical powers.

Facts & Figures:
Many famous rulers were fond of pearls including Julius Caesar and Cleopatra. A natural pearl is found only once in 10,000 mollusks. Today, almost all pearls used in jewelry are cultured pearls, meaning they have been created with the help of man. Birthstone of zodiac signs Gemini and Cancer.

Healing Properties:
Some believe that wearing a pearl helps one to be honest, pure and wise. It is also believed to treat digestive disorders and increase fertility and eases childbirth.

Color:
Cultured pearls come in white, black and every soft shade in between, plus pink, light purple, peach, silver and gold. Some cultured pearls also have a subtle iridescence, called "orient." This shimmering effect creates a rainbow of colors on the pearl's surface.

Characteristics:
Pearls are on the softer side, 2.5-4.5 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Pearls can be found in various shapes – round, near-round, oval, drop, button, semi-baroque and baroque. While all high quality pearls should be 90% blemish free, no pearl is perfect.

Jewelry
Today, high-quality cultured freshwater pearls make pearl jewelry affordable to all. One of the most classic gems, the cultured pearl is always a favorite for necklaces, bracelets, pearl earrings, rings and brooches. Wear pearls for a classy look with endless elegance.

Care & Handling:
Avoid getting perfume, hair spray, cosmetics or any beauty products on your pearls to avoid damaging the pearls' luster. Wipe with soft cloth after each wearing. Use mild soapy water once in awhile for deeper cleaning. Make sure pearl jewelry is dry before wearing. Store jewelry separately.