Pearl: June's Birthstone Guide

Each June baby has three traditional birthstones to choose from - pearl, alexandrite and moonstone. Out of the three, pearl remains the most popular gemstone for June. In this blog, Diamond Heaven explores the fascinating history behind your pearl jewellery. How these gems form, and how to choose the perfect pearl jewellery piece for you. Featuring three of our best selling pearl jewellery pieces.

What is June’s Birthstone? 

June’s birthstone is the elegant and beautiful pearl, which is the most popular gemstone for this month. Pearls have been a timeless wardrobe staple for women for centuries. Traditionally pearl jewellery pieces were considered to only be worn by the higher class and nobility, this has transformed into formalwear and bridal wear over the years. However today Pearls can be worn with any type of outfit and we are noticing new and interesting designs for men and women on the market. However we love a classic pearl jewellery piece and it is the perfect addition to everyone's jewellery collection which you can dress up for big occasions and wear in everyday casual attire.

What Colour Is June's Birthstone?

• Pearl: Typically milky and lustrous, pearls can also be found in white, cream, pink, black, green, gold, and silver.
• Moonstone: Pale and translucent, moonstones display a bluish-silver shimmer called adularescence.
• Alexandrite: Known for its colour-change, it looks green or bluish-green in daylight and shifts to red or purplish-red under incandescent light.

How Are Pearls Formed? 

Pearls form when a foreign particle enters a mollusc. As a defence mechanism, the oyster or mussel deposits layers of nacre, also called mother-of-pearl, around the irritant, which gradually produces a lustrous gem. The process can take two to four years, depending on nacre thickness and environmental conditions.

• Saltwater Pearls: Found primarily in the Arabian Gulf, Baja California, and Venezuela.
  
  
• Freshwater Pearls: Mostly cultured in China, making high-quality freshwater pearls more accessible and affordable than their saltwater counterparts.

The Timeless History of Pearls

No other birthstone has a richer legacy than pearls. In Ancient Rome, pearls were a sign of immense wealth, so rare and precious that Julius Caesar once decreed only the ruling class could wear them.

Pearls have long been associated with innocence, humility, and purity, which is attributed to the meaning of sweet simplicity. When it comes to weddings, pearl jewellery is a popular choice among brides on their wedding day as it matches so well with the white dress and lace veil as a final elegant touch to the bride's final look. 

The Different Types of Pearls and Their Qualities

• Freshwater Pearls: Cultured in mussels, these pearls come in various shapes like round, oval, and baroque, often at more budget-friendly prices.
  
  
• Akoya Pearls: Classic, perfectly round saltwater pearls with high lustre, traditionally cultured in Japan.
  
  
• South Sea Pearls: Larger saltwater pearls which come in white, champagne or golden hues, valued for their size and satin-like finish.
  
  
• Tahitian Pearls: Dark saltwater pearls, ranging from charcoal to peacock green, are grown around French Polynesia.

Our Best Selling’ Pearl Jewellery at Diamond Heaven

Below are three stunning pearl pieces, perfect for a June Birthday gift or wedding present. However pearls are a classic design to wear all year round that add elegance to any outfit and are a perfect addition to any jewellery collection.

5mm Freshwater Pearl Bracelet

Our 5mm Freshwater Pearl Bracelet features two rows of perfectly matched, shiny freshwater pearls, joined by a sleek rectangular clasp. The double-strand design offers extra visual impact and it can be worn alone for understated elegance or stacked with bangles for a more modern look. Each pearl is carefully hand-selected for consistent shape and adds a vintage charm to any attire.

Pearl Stud Earrings

The Pearl Stud Earrings features perfectly matched freshwater pearls set on 9ct yellow gold posts for classic elegance. Each pearl boasts a smooth surface and sits neatly against the earlobe, offering a timeless look from day to night. The 9ct yellow gold setting and secure butterfly back ensures a bold style and comfortable design for all-day wear.

Pearl and Diamond Reflection Drop Necklace

This Pearl and Diamond Reflection Drop Necklace blends luminous pearls with sparkling diamonds for a refined, contemporary design. A single radiant pearl is gracefully suspended beneath a line of brilliant-cut diamonds, creating a delicate drop that catches the light beautifully. Set in fine gold, the elegant pendant hangs from a slender chain, offering a comfortable fit while adding a timeless touch of sophistication to any look. 

Choosing the Right Pearl Jewellery Piece for You

If you or a loved one have a June birthday, why not make this year an unforgettable one with a piece of elegant pearl jewellery? At Diamond Heaven our team of professionals will be on hand to assist you with finding the perfect pearl necklace, pendant or bracelet which your loved one will treasure forever.

How to Take Care of Your Pearls

Because pearls are soft and delicate, always store them separately to other jewellery pieces, whether you choose to wrap them in a soft cloth or in a lined pouch or separate section in your jewellery box, just ensure you store them away from other metal jewellery to prevent scratching or any accidental damage. Since pearls are porous, avoid placing them in water or cleaning solutions; you should also keep them clear of perfume, hairspray, and moisturisers, as these can cause discolouration. When wearing your pearl jewellery make sure they are not stacked next to harder metals to minimise the risk of damage. After wearing, gently wipe each pearl with a soft cloth, and if deeper cleaning is needed, use a specialist pearl cleaning product that your jewellers recommend. We offer cleaning and polishing services on all pearl jewellery pieces purchased from a Diamond Heaven store, read up more on our instore jewellery cleaning services here. 

Shop our Pearl Jewellery Online with Diamond Heaven

Buying a piece of pearl jewellery for yourself, a friend, or a family member is the best way to celebrate your June birthday. If you’re looking to treat yourself or your friend in June, then it’s worth buying one of our pieces of pearl jewellery. You can book an appointment at one of our stores today, where an expert can help you choose the perfect piece of pearl jewellery as a gift for yourself or someone else.