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June arrives with soft light, early summer warmth, and a sense of calm elegance that perfectly reflects one of its most timeless birthstones, pearl. Unlike other gemstones formed deep within the earth, pearls are created by living molluscs, giving them a uniquely organic beauty that has captivated people for thousands of years.
Alongside moonstone and alexandrite, pearl completes June’s trio of birthstones, offering a classic, luminous option steeped in history, symbolism, and quiet sophistication.
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Why Pearl is One of June’s Birthstones
Pearl has been associated with June for centuries, long before birthstones were formally standardised. So when the American National Association of Jewelers established the modern birthstone list in 1912, pearl felt like an obvious and natural choice rather than a new addition.
That long-standing connection is closely tied to the meanings pearls have carried throughout history. Their associations with purity, love, and wisdom made them especially popular for bridal jewellery, and with June traditionally being a peak wedding month, the link only grew stronger. Over time, pearls also came to symbolise harmony and protection, qualities that sit beautifully alongside midsummer celebrations and the idea of fresh beginnings.
Adding another layer to their symbolism, ancient traditions often linked pearls to the moon and the sea. These natural associations quietly reinforce pearl’s place as a June birthstone, reflecting the softer, luminous energy of the season itself.
🔗 Explore the History of Birthstones to learn more about this timeless tradition
History and Lore of Pearl
Pearls boast one of the longest and most fascinating histories of any gemstone. In many cultures, pearls were believed to be tears of the gods or drops of moonlight. They were prized in ancient Egypt, Rome, China, and Persia, often reserved for royalty and the wealthy elite. In Rome, pearls symbolised status and power, while in ancient China they were believed to protect against fire and dragons.
Cleopatra famously dissolved a pearl in vinegar and drank it to demonstrate her wealth and influence, highlighting just how valuable pearls once were. During the Renaissance, pearls became a symbol of refinement and were frequently featured in royal portraits and elaborate jewellery.
Today, pearls remain a symbol of elegance and grace, loved for their natural beauty and timeless appeal rather than rarity alone.
Pearl’s Meaning, Symbolism, and Energy
Pearls are traditionally associated with purity, wisdom, and emotional balance. Their soft, luminous glow is often seen as a symbol of inner peace and quiet strength, favouring calm presence over outward brilliance. For those born in June, pearls are thought to encourage calmness, honesty, and more thoughtful decision-making.
These qualities carry through into spiritual traditions, where pearls are commonly linked to the crown and heart chakras. In this context, they are believed to support clarity, compassion, and emotional healing, while gently absorbing negative energy and promoting a sense of serenity. This makes pearls a comforting stone to wear during periods of change or reflection.
Whether worn as jewellery or kept as a personal keepsake, pearls are often said to nurture emotional resilience and a quiet, timeless confidence.
Types of Pearls and Buying Tips
Pearls come in a wide range of types and colours, each with its own distinct character. The most common varieties include freshwater pearls, Akoya pearls, South Sea pearls, and Tahitian pearls. Their colours span everything from classic white and cream to soft pinks, silvers, warm golds, and deep charcoal tones.
When choosing pearls, lustre should always be your starting point. High-quality pearls reflect light sharply and appear to glow from within, rather than looking flat or chalky. Surface quality, shape, and size all influence value as well, but lustre remains the most important factor. While perfectly round pearls still command a premium, naturally shaped baroque pearls have become a strong fashion favourite in recent years.
Because pearls are relatively soft, they benefit from gentle care. It’s best to avoid exposing them to perfumes, hairspray, and harsh chemicals, and to store them separately so they don’t become scratched by harder gemstones. After wearing, pearls should be wiped with a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove any residue and help maintain their natural sheen over time.
Fun Facts About Pearl
- Pearls are not the only organic gemstone, but they are the only gemstones created by living organisms.
- Truly natural pearls from the wild are extremely rare today. Most pearls available on the market are cultured freshwater pearls, which usually come from mussels rather than the classic oysters most people picture when thinking of pearls.
- Pearl jewellery can actually benefit from regular wear, as natural oils from the skin help maintain and even enhance the pearls’ lustre, provided they are cared for gently.
June’s Other Birthstones
June is rare in having three official birthstones, each offering a completely different aesthetic and meaning. Alongside pearl’s classic elegance, June also celebrates moonstone and alexandrite.
Moonstone is loved for its soft shimmer and connection to intuition and emotional balance.
Alexandrite stands out for its rare colour-changing properties, offering a dramatic and magical option for collectors.
Together, pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite give June birthdays a beautifully varied selection, allowing each person to choose a stone that suits their style, energy, and budget.
Pearl’s Enduring Place in June Birthstone Lore
Pearl remains one of June’s most beloved birthstones, valued for its natural origins, gentle glow, and deep-rooted symbolism. From ancient royalty to modern jewellery lovers, pearls continue to represent grace, wisdom, and quiet strength.
Whether worn as a simple strand, a modern design, or kept as a meaningful keepsake, pearl brings timeless beauty and calm elegance to every June birthstone collection.
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