Produced by none other than a living oyster below the ocean, the birthstone of June babies – the pearl – is a true natural beauty.
Considered a little drop of elegance, the pearl is a gorgeous addition to any outfit and is loved by all ages.
Andrew Mazzone explained that due to its uniqueness, the smooth gemstone has its own grading standards that determine quality, value and beauty.
“A pearl can be graded by its shape, colour, size, lustre, surface quality, nacre quality and matching value of pearls,” he said.
Naturally, pearls come in a range of different shapes, from the traditional round ball, to oval, teardrop and button. They also come in a range of colours, with fresh water, natural and black pearls being the most highly sought after. Cultured fresh water pearls can also be dyed yellow, green, blue, brown, pink or purple.
While we don’t usually get into the nitty gritty of a birthstone’s production, the pearl is so unique that we thought we’d share a little insight.
It is the only birthstone created by a living creature and begins its life as an object in the sea – such as a piece of shell or a parasite. If it accidentally becomes lodged in an oyster, the oyster begins to defend itself against the object, by coating it in a smooth substance.
After some time, the object becomes completely covered by the coating, and voila, a pearl is born! Gemstones must be cut and polished, but pearls don’t need any treatment at all.
Considered ‘teardrops of the moon’, the pearl is a symbol of purity and innocence – often sewn into bridal gowns or worn as bridal jewellery. It’s also said to represent wisdom acquired through experience – attracting wealth, luck and protection.
The name ‘pearl’, comes from an old French word – ‘perle’. Essentially it means ‘leg’, referring to the shape of an open mollusc shell and how it looks like the leg of a sheep. Certainly not as glamorous as the gemstone itself, right?
Today, the word ‘pearl’ has also been used to describe anything of great value or rarity. The stone is commonly given as a third wedding anniversary gift, as well as the 30th pearl jubilee.
At Andrew Mazzone Design Jewellers, we have a range of exquisite ready-to-wear pearls in store, with our favourite picks below:
9ct white gold, Tahitian black pearl & diamond earrings – from $1,180
Najo sterling silver and pearl adjustable lariat – $229
Najo pearl dangle earrings – $159
9ct white gold, black fresh water pearl and diamond drop pendant – from $430
We also have everything from pearl stud earrings to a classic string of pearls, as well as being able to custom-make pearl jewellery to your individual design.
To celebrate the precious birthstone’s month, mention this blog during June 2017 to receive 20% off all of the stunning pearl jewellery sold in Andrew Mazzone Design Jewellers. Click here to locate our Adelaide jewellery store and opening hours.
Featured image: String of pearls, 9ct yellow gold, south sea pearl and brilliant cut diamond hook earrings and 9ct yellow gold, white Mabe pearl bezel set ring,
The following source has been used to compile this article – Bellatory
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