June: Birthstone of the month - Pearls

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Pearls are the June birthstone and the only gemstone created by living organisms
They come in many colors: white, cream, black, pink, and rare Tahitian shades
Pearls symbolize wisdom, purity, and good fortune across many cultures
With proper care, Pearl jewelry can last for generations as a treasured heirloom

In This Article

What Makes Pearls So Special
Types and Colors of Pearls
Pearl Symbolism and History
Pearls at Valltasy
How to Care for Your Pearls
Pearl FAQ

What Makes Pearls So Special

Did you know that the June birthstone is the timeless Pearl? It’s a gem that holds a unique and enduring charm, often associated with purity, innocence, and elegance.

What makes Pearls especially fascinating is that they are the only gemstones created by living organisms, specifically mollusks like oysters and mussels. The process begins when an irritant, such as a tiny grain of sand, finds its way into the mollusk’s shell. To protect itself, the mollusk secretes layers of a substance called nacre, which gradually forms around the irritant, creating a lustrous Pearl.

This natural process takes years, and that’s part of what makes every Pearl so precious. Layer by layer, nature creates something truly breathtaking. It’s one of the reasons I’m so drawn to working with Pearls in my designs.

Types and Colors of Pearls

Most people think of Pearls as white or cream, but the Pearl world is full of beautiful surprises! Here are the main types:

Akoya Pearls: Classic white or cream with a gorgeous mirror-like luster. The most traditional Pearl choice.
Tahitian Pearls: My personal favorites! These come from the waters of French Polynesia and display incredible colors like peacock green, silver grey, and deep charcoal with overtones of pink and blue.
South Sea Pearls: Large and luxurious, found in golden and white shades. These are among the rarest and most valuable Pearls.
Freshwater Pearls: Come in a wide range of colors including white, pink, peach, and lavender. More affordable but still beautiful.
Edison Pearls: A newer type of freshwater Pearl with stunning metallic luster and beautiful mauve, pink, and purple tones.

The luster of a high-quality Pearl is captivating, reflecting light and displaying a soft, iridescent glow that no other gemstone can replicate.

Pearl Symbolism and History

Pearls have been treasured for centuries, symbolizing wisdom acquired through experience, just as they are formed layer by layer within the mollusk over time. In ancient cultures, they were associated with love, fertility, and femininity.

Throughout history, Pearls have held special significance. Cleopatra famously dissolved a Pearl in wine to demonstrate her wealth. In more recent history, iconic figures like Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy wore Pearls as symbols of timeless sophistication.

Today, Pearls continue to symbolize purity and wisdom. Many cultures believe they bring good fortune, love, and harmony into the lives of those who wear them. For June babies, wearing their birthstone Pearl is a beautiful way to connect with this rich tradition.

“Wearing Pearls is like carrying a piece of the ocean’s elegance with you. Each Pearl holds years of nature’s patient work inside.”

Pearls at Valltasy

I love pairing Pearls with colorful gemstones to create designs that feel both classic and completely fresh. At Valltasy, I work mostly with rare Tahitian Pearls and beautiful Edison Pearls, combining them with hand-carved gemstones and 14K Solid Gold.

The result is something you won’t find anywhere else: one of a kind Pearl earrings that bring together the timeless elegance of Pearls with the bold, colorful energy that Valltasy is known for.

The Illusion Earrings

Rarest Tahitian Pearls with a matched pair of Dendritic Agates. This exclusive one of a kind design looks ultra modern and unique! 14K Gold enhances the beauty of these rare gems.

“The Illusion Earrings” by Valltasy

The Hummingbird Earrings

A stunning combination of lustrous Tahitian Pearls with Pink Tourmalines. The Gold chain adds a dramatic look, and the hand-carved Pink Tourmaline leaves are truly a collector’s treasure!

“The Hummingbird Earrings” by Valltasy

The Flamingo Earrings

Rose Gold 14K beauties with Pink Mauve Edison Pearls and hand-carved Rubellite Pink Tourmaline leaves. So flattering when worn!

“The Flamingo Earrings” by Valltasy

The Milky Way Earrings

Aquamarine, Pearls, and an enchanting Geode specimen! How unique and special! Incredibly flattering, they look stunning with any outfit.

“The Milky Way Earrings” by Valltasy

How to Care for Your Pearls

Pearls are softer than most gemstones, so they need a little extra love. Here are my tips to keep them looking beautiful:

Put them on last: Apply perfume, hairspray, and lotions before putting on your Pearl jewelry. Chemicals can damage the nacre over time.
Wipe them gently: After wearing, wipe your Pearls with a soft, damp cloth to remove any oils or residue.
Store them separately: Keep Pearls away from other jewelry to avoid scratches. A soft pouch or lined jewelry box works well.
Wear them often: Pearls actually benefit from being worn! The natural oils from your skin help maintain their luster.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Keep them away from household cleaners, chlorine, and acidic substances.

PRO TIP

The “last on, first off” rule is the easiest way to remember Pearl care. Put your Pearls on as the last step of getting ready, and take them off first when you get home. This simple habit will help your Pearls stay beautiful for decades.

WHAT CUSTOMERS SAY

“I love Moonstone. I was looking for a glowing pair of earrings for so long and then I found this store. These earrings are spectacular!”

– Annie C., on the The Night Queen Earrings

- Solid Gold 14K Diamond Rainbow Moonstone Earrings

COMMON QUESTIONS

Pearl FAQ

Why are pearls the June birthstone?

Pearls have been associated with June for centuries, partly because the Pearl harvest season traditionally falls during summer months. They also symbolize purity and innocence, qualities associated with the transition from spring to summer. June actually has three birthstones: Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite.

What are Tahitian Pearls and why are they special?

Tahitian Pearls come from the black-lipped oyster found in the waters of French Polynesia. They’re famous for their dark, exotic colors with stunning overtones of green, blue, pink, and purple. No two Tahitian Pearls are exactly alike, which makes every piece of jewelry featuring them truly one of a kind.

Can I wear pearl earrings every day?

Yes, you can! Just follow the basic care tips: put them on last, wipe them gently after wearing, and keep them away from harsh chemicals. When set in 14K Gold like my designs, the settings are durable enough for daily wear. The Pearls themselves actually benefit from being worn regularly.

Can I request custom pearl jewelry?

Of course! I love working with Pearls in custom designs. Whether you’re looking for a specific Pearl color, a matching set, or a unique combination of Pearls and colored gemstones, visit my custom orders page and let’s create something beautiful together.

How can I tell if pearls are real?

Real Pearls have a slightly gritty texture when rubbed gently against your teeth (the “tooth test”), while fake Pearls feel smooth. Real Pearls also have slight imperfections and variations in luster, while imitation Pearls look too perfect and uniform. All Pearls used at Valltasy are 100% genuine natural or cultured Pearls.

JUNE BIRTHSTONE