Pearl is the traditional birthstone for the month of June and the stone for 3rd and 30th wedding anniversaries. Pearls are an organic gemstone, meaning they come from plants or animals. Most gemstones are minerals (natural, inorganic materials with a specific chemical composition). Pearls form in either salt or fresh water environments in several species of bivalves (clams) that are members of the Phylum Mollusca. Pearls are composed of tiny overlapping platelets of the mineral aragonite, a calcium carbonate. Natural Pearls form in the body or mantle tissue of certain mollusks, usually around a microscopic irritant, and always without human help of any kind. Cultured Pearls requires human intervention and care. Today, most of the mollusks used in the culturing process are raised specifically for producing Pearls, although some wild mollusks are still collected and used. Since the 1920s, cultured pearls have almost completely replaced natural pearls in the market, allowing this enchanting gemstone to be affordable for almost any budget. Natural Pearls have a hefty price tag; a natural strand of freshwater Pearls can retail for $20,000. 

Pearls are known as the “Queen of the Gems” because of their fascinating history dating back to Ancient Egypt. Cleopatra owned the two largest pearls at that time, recorded by Roman historian Pliny the Elder. Pearls have been adored and prized as jewels longer than any other cut gemstone in recorded history. Recorded in ancient Vedic texts, Pearl is born of the Earth's waters and the heaven's powers, fertilized by a flash of lightning and considered to be the daughter of the Moon. In modern Western Culture, Pearls are also associated with Venus and Aphrodite (goddess of love who was born from the sea). Anicent legend says the tears Eve cried when she was banished from Eden turned to pearls. Other legends say white pearls are tears from God.

Pearls have a soothing and feminine energy that helps you tune into your intuition and receive guidance from your higher self. Pearls help support your body's overall health and energy. Pearls are incredible for attracting good energy into your home and luck on your path. 

Hardness: 2.5

Color: White, cream, black, gray, and silver. Some pearls also show the iridescent phenomenon known as orient.

Structure: Orthorhombic. Pearl is an organic gem which do not typically have a crystal structure.

Care: Avoid prolonged exposure to heat (or extreme heat), direct sunlight and contact with water, abrasive surfaces or chemicals. Remove before contact sports, weight lifting or activities where it may come into contact with force. As always, minerals higher on the hardness scale should be stored away from it. Pearls need moisture and draw moisture from the air. Keeping these in an air-tight container like a jewelry box or safe deposit box can be damaging to them. Pearls will also dry out, crack or discolor from excess heat. Pearls should also be cleaned before storage because they vulnerable to acids (think perspiration) and scratching. Store Pearl jewelry separately from other pieces to minimize accidental contact or scratches.

Cleaning: Warm water, mild soap, and soft microfiber cloth. Do not submerge in water.

Feng Shui Placement: Pearl is a beautiful gem to store in the bedroom to promote peace, love and fidelity in your relationships.