Pearl – birthstone for the month of June

Many believe the discovery of pearls dates long before recorded history. Pearls are unlike any other precious gemstones because they need no enhancements such as cutting or polishing to help admire their captivating beauty.

Pearls were highly revered by Romans, rulers of Ancient India, and the Chinese. Ancient Hindu writings refer to pearls as bringing longevity and prosperity. The ancient Greeks believed pearls should be a part of the wedding. They thought pearls would bring love and all guests of the wedding were adorned in pearls.

Most pearls available today are cultured, meaning that the mollusk is purposely inserted with an irritant or “nucleus” from which it creates a beautiful pearl.

Cultured pearls aren't “fake” like many people may believe. The culturing process takes from two to three years and the process is a very delicate one. Pearl farmers have little control over what the finished pearl will look like or if the mollusk will reject the nucleus.

Purchasing
When purchasing pearls, overall look is very important. Step back, look at the entire strand, and decide for yourself if they are matched for color, even in shape, consistent in luster and sheen from each pearl to the next, and have a very consistent appearance.

Assume all pearls are cultured. If a jeweler insists they are natural, get documented proof.

Care
Pearls will remain beautiful and durable for years if taken care of properly. Do what the experts advise: Keep them away from household chemicals such as hair spray, makeup, and perfume which can dull their luster over time and cause spots and blotches. To avoid the effects of cosmetics and perfume, pearls should be the last thing a woman puts on before going out and the first thing she takes off after returning home.