The primary birthstone associated with the month of June is the pearl. Pearls have long been prized for their lustrous beauty and associated with femininity, purity, and new beginnings. As the official birthstone for June, the pearl is believed to impart these qualities to people born in this summer month.
What are birthstones?
A birthstone is a gemstone that represents each month of the year. Wearing or gifting a birthstone is thought to bring good luck and health benefits to people born in that month.
The custom of associating certain gemstones with months of the year dates back thousands of years. Various ancient cultures, including the Romans, Hindus, and Hebrews, linked specific stones to corresponding months. Over time, these traditions spread and stabilized into the set of modern birthstones we recognize today.
While astrologers once used birthstones in zodiac calculations relating to the cycles of the sun, today birthstones are mainly used for symbolic and aesthetic reasons. Wearing or gifting someone their birthstone is considered good luck and said to enhance the qualities related to that stone.
History of the pearl as the June birthstone
The pearl has long been associated with the month of June. In ancient Vedic astrology, the pearl was linked to the Moon, which rules the astrological sign of Cancer that falls primarily in June.
In Western culture, the tradition of the June pearl birthstone is often traced to the Ancient Romans. The Roman scholar Pliny the Elder described pearls as “the foremost gem in the world” and associated them with the goddess Venus. Since June was the month dedicated to Venus, it naturally became the month of the pearl.
By the 15th-16th centuries, references to pearl as the June birthstone appeared in various sources. In a poem by Ausonius written in the 4th century CE, pearls are noted as “born in the month of June.” An Italian manuscript from the 16th century titled Il Cortegiano also mentions pearl as the June birthstone.
The June pearl association was solidified in 1912 when the American National Association of Jewelers officially adopted pearl as the June birthstone. Since then, the pearl has been firmly established as THE birthstone for June.
Meaning and symbolism of the June birthstone
As the June birthstone, the pearl carries many symbolic meanings related to its luminous beauty and origins within an oyster’s shell.
Here are some of the key symbolic meanings associated with pearls:
- Purity – Historically, pearls represent purity and innocence. Their white color has been associated with virginity and new beginnings.
- Wisdom – Pearls are thought to impart wisdom, as they grow slowly over time within oysters.
- Beauty – Pearls showcase a gleaming, elegant beauty unlike any other gem.
- Femininity – Pearls have long been tied to grace, femininity, and the feminine power of water.
- Moon – In many cultures, pearls are linked to the Moon, cycles, and flow.
- Wealth and status – As rare organic gems, pearls symbolize wealth and high social status.
- Perfection – The round shape and luminous luster gives pearls an allure of perfection.
For people born in June, the pearl is thought to impart these positive virtues. Wearing or gifting pearls is considered especially beneficial for June-borns, bestowing peace, wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.
Pearl qualities
The pearl gets its luminous beauty from its unique structure. Unlike other gems that are mined from the earth, pearls are the only gems formed within living creatures – oysters and mollusks.
Natural pearls form when an irritant, such as a tiny stone or parasite, gets lodged within an oyster’s shell. To ease the irritation, the oyster secretes a smooth, crystalline substance called nacre that coats the intruding object.
Layer upon layer of shimmering nacre builds up over several years, eventually hardening into what we know as a pearl. The more nacre layers, the higher quality the pearl. This time-intensive process makes natural pearls rare and valuable.
Here are some key qualities of pearls that contribute to their prized status:
Luster – Pearls possess an inner glow known as orient. The high luster comes from light reflecting and refracting off the translucent layers of nacre.
Complexion – Natural pearls exhibit slight surface imperfections that add warm, organic character. Perfectly smooth complexions tend to look artificial.
Shape – Spherical pearls with a symmetrical shape are most desirable. Baroque and asymmetric shapes are unique but less valuable.
Size – Larger pearls above 6-7mm are rare and command higher prices. However, smaller sizes have a delicate appeal.
Nacre quality – Thicker nacre produces better luster. A-quality pearls have a high nacre thickness for maximum brilliance.
Color – While white is most common, pearls come in various hues like pink, peach, grey, and black. Certain colors are rarer.
Surface – Clean surfaces free of spots or blemishes are ideal. Some surface character adds appeal but flaws reduce value.
Luster – Pearls with high mirror-like reflects have top value. Pearly luster is a key sign of quality.
Origin – Natural pearls from wild mollusks are exceptionally rare. Most pearls today are cultivated for consistent quality.
June birthstone colors
The June birthstone comes in a variety of colors beyond classic white pearls. Some popular June pearl colors include:
White – The most iconic pearl color, known for its silvery white to blueish tones. White pearls symbolize purity.
Cream – Warm light cream-colored pearls evoke elegance. They work for any skin tone.
Peach – Peach pearls have a delicate pink-orange hue like the fruit. Associated with health and longevity.
Pink – From light to rose to fuchsia, pink pearls convey sweetness, love, and femininity.
Grey – Sophisticated dark grey pearls complement modern and minimalist styles.
Green – Rare green pearls get their light green color from the mollusk’s hemoglobin. They represent healing and vitality.
Blue – Akoya oysters produce gorgeous deep blue pearls. They symbolize openness, relaxation and sensitivity.
Purple – Extremely rare purple pearls radiate luxury and passion.
Black – Known as Tahitian pearls, these dark “black” pearls are intensely exotic. They symbolize wealth and seduction.
When choosing a June birthstone, select a pearl color that aligns with the personality and preferences of the wearer based on the symbolic meanings.
Types of June birthstones
Pearls fall into two main categories:
Natural pearls – Formed randomly in nature when an irritant gets lodged in a mollusk. Extremely rare and valuable.
Cultured pearls – Pearls produced through a controlled cultivation process. A nucleus is manually inserted into a mollusk to induce nacre production. Takes 3-7 years to cultivate high quality pearls.
The top 4 types of cultured pearls, which comprise most June birthstone options on the market, are:
Akoya pearls – Produced by Akoya oysters, known for their refined luster and colors. Most common pearl type. Sizes range from 3-10mm.
Tahitian pearls – Cultured in Tahiti from the Black lip oyster. Famous for exotic black color with peacock overtones. Large sizes 8-15mm.
South Sea pearls – Grown in the South Pacific in White or Gold lip oysters. Prized for their large sizes, up to 20mm diameter.
Freshwater pearls – Grown in rivers and lakes primarily in China. Known for their affordable prices and wide range of colors and shapes. Sizes from 5-14mm.
How are June birthstones worn and styled?
Pearls are extremely versatile June birthstones that can be styled in countless ways:
Necklaces – Single or multi-strand pearl necklaces are a classic. Collar styles sit elegantly around the neck. Chokers are dramatic. The longer the necklace, the more formal the look.
Earrings – Studs, drops, or hoops with pearls highlight the face beautifully. For everyday, pearl studs add a polished touch.
Rings – Delicate pearl rings work for any occasion. Pearls in halo, cluster, or solitaire rings are stunning as well.
Bracelets – Pearl bracelets with dangling charms channel vintage femininity. Or do stackable pearl bangles.
Pins – Sophisticated pearl pins or brooches brighten up blazers, sweaters, scarves and more.
Hair accessories – Elevate a bun or ponytail with a pearl hair clip, comb, or headband.
Mixing pearl styles, colors, and sizes creates an eye-catching layered effect. Pearls also combine seamlessly with other metals and gemstones.
For a modern twist, style formal strands with casual everyday outfits. Let your creativity shine when accessorizing with the June birthstone.
How to care for June birthstone jewelry
Pearls require special care to maintain their luster and prevent damage:
Keep them away from chemicals – Exposure to acids, oils, perfumes, hairspray and other chemicals can dull or discolor pearls. Take pearls off before doing household cleaning or beauty routines.
Store them separately – Pearls scratch easily when rubbing against other gems. Keep them in a dedicated pouch or compartment.
Avoid temperature extremes – High heat and extreme cold can fracture the nacre layers. Don’t let them get too hot or cold.
Keep them dry – Moisture can seep into pearls and cause cracks or milky patches. Let them dry completely before storing.
Clean them gently – Use a soft cloth to wipe off dirt and oils. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Handwash pearls with mild soap and water only if needed.
Don’t expose them to chemicals – Hairspray, perfume, lotion, and chlorine bleach can all damage or discolor pearls. Take them off when using these products.
Get them restrung yearly – Silk or pearl strands stretch and weaken over time. Regular restringing maintains their beauty.
With periodic cleaning and proper care, June birthstone pearls will maintain their luminous nacre for years to come. Avoiding harsh chemicals and handling them gently keeps them looking lustrous.
June birthstone gifts and products
Here are some June birthstone pearl gift ideas to delight a June-born person:
| Gift | Description |
|---|---|
| Pearl necklace | A classic gift, choose from delicate strands to dramatic collars based on her style. |
| Pearl stud earrings | Perfect everyday pearls. Pick a classic white, pink, or gold pair. |
| Pearl hair clip | An elegant way to decorate her hair. Opt for vintage-inspired or minimalist styles. |
| Pearl ring | From sweet and dainty to statement rings, you can’t go wrong with a pearl jewel for her finger. |
| Pearl pendant necklace | A distinctive pearl pendant on a chain creates a necklace she’ll cherish. |
| Pearl drop earrings | dramatic yet sophisticated dangly pearl earrings make fun birthday, graduation, or anniversary gifts. |
| Pearl bracelet | Choose a tennis pearl bracelet, charm bracelet, or pearl cuff to suit her personal style. |
| Baroque pearl necklace | Unique baroque shapes have an organic, artful look. Especially fitting for free-spirited personalities. |
| Black Tahitian pearl earrings | For the woman who loves exotic elegance, black Tahitian pearl earrings add intrigue. |
| Pearl hair comb | Adorn her hair for a special occasion with a pearl hair comb or accessory. |
Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, anniversary, or holiday gift, June-born women will adore receiving a pearl accessory featuring their birthstone. Take her personal style and preferences into account when selecting a piece she’ll treasure.
Where to buy June birthstones
You can find June birthstone jewelry at:
Jewelry stores – National chains and local jewelers carry a variety of pearl styles and price points. You can see pieces in person.
Department stores – Many department stores have jewelry sections with pearls. You’ll find affordable fashion options.
Online – Shopping online provides the widest selection of pearl styles and colors. Reputable sites let you search and filter easily.
Handcrafted/vintage – For unique finds, check out handmade or vintage pearl pieces on Etsy, at craft fairs, antique shops, and consignment stores.
Designer brands – High-end designers like Mikimoto and Tiffany offer extravagant, high-quality pearl pieces. Expect premium pricing.
Pearl farms – Some pearl farms sell directly to consumers online or at their stores. You may find good deals cutting out the middleman.
Do your research to find a trusted seller with quality pearls that fit your budget. Ask about pearl grades, nacre thickness, certification, and sourcing when investing in this luxurious June birthstone.
Conclusion
With its luminous beauty and symbolism, the pearl is the perfect birthstone representing those born in June. This rare organic gem imparts many wonderful virtues onto its wearers including purity, wisdom, prosperity and good luck. Pearls come in a variety of colors and styles to suit anyone’s personal taste. They make treasured gifts for June-born people, reminding them of their unique qualities tied to their birth month. With proper care and cleaning, pearl jewelry will remain a beloved, enduring heirloom to enjoy for years to come.
