Interesting Facts About June’s Birthstone: The Pearl

Are you a June baby? Or perhaps just fascinated with gemstones and their history? You’re in the right place. Read on to explore interesting facts about June’s birthstone, the pearl.

Not Even a Stone

What makes pearls distinct from other birthstones is that they are not mineral formations. Pearls are organic gems formed inside the shells of certain mollusks, such as oysters and clams. When an irritant, like a grain of sand, finds its way into the mollusk, the creature secretes a protective substance called nacre to surround the foreign object. This results in the birth of a lustrous pearl.

Plenty of Varieties

Countless pearl varieties of pearls exist across the globe. We often classify pearls by where we find them: saltwater and freshwater. Akoya, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls are saltwater varieties, while freshwater pearls predominantly come from China. Pearls also come in various shapes, such as round, baroque, and button, as well as colors like white, pink, lavender, black, and gold.

Historical Significance

Pearls have captivated the hearts and minds of people throughout history, holding significant value in various societies. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with pearl jewelry as symbols of wealth and status, while in ancient Rome, pearls were the ultimate embodiment of luxury. Pearls have also played an essential role in many iconic pieces of art and jewelry, such as the legendary Pearl of Lao Tzu and the La Peregrina pearl.

Symbolism and Meaning

Apart from their majestic allure, there are deeper layers of symbolism and meaning associated with pearls. The spiritual meanings of summer birthstones reveal that the pearl symbolizes inner wisdom and healing. Also, many people believe these gorgeous gems can aid in promoting emotional healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. Some also consider pearls to have protective properties, shielding the wearer from negative energies and attracting positive vibrations.

Exploring interesting facts about June’s birthstone reveals the pearl’s unique characteristics, boundless beauty, and versatility. With a variety of forms, rich cultural and historical significance, and profound symbolism, this organic gem deserves celebration.