June Birthstones

This beautiful pearl pin is just one of the fine gifts available at Daniel's Jewelers. Visit our convenient downtown Bluffton store to see additional selections.

Pearl

Pearl is the birthstone for the month of June. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the third and 30th years of marriage.

A pearl is the product of an oyster's defense mechanism. When a foreign irritant is introduced either by man (cultured) or naturally, the oyster surrounds it with layers of a substance called nacre. This forms the exquisite gemstone know as pearl.

Natural pearls are extremely rare. Almost all pearls on the market today are cultured by man.

Cultured pearls come in a wide range of colors. They should be relatively free of skin blemishes. The more perfectly round the shape the better. The higher the luster, or "orient," the more valuable the specimen. The larger the cultured pearl, the greater the value.

Besides the popular round shape, there are stylish mabe (large hemispherical cultured pearls), freshwater (elongated in interesting shapes and colors), and South Sea (large cultured pearls 10mm and up from the waters of Australia and Indonesia), to name a few.

Pearls have been recognized as the emblem of modesty, chastity and purity. They have come to symbolize a happy marriage.

Avoid household chemicals, cosmetics, hair sprays and perfumes. Don't use ultrasonic cleaners. Wash with mild soap and water and store in a protective chamois pouch or tissue paper.

Moonstone

Moonstone is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in June, since it physically resembles some pearls.