The Pearl is the modern birthstone for the month of June. The beautiful pearl is the only gem that is created from a living organism, the Oyster. The process of pearl formation is actually a reaction to an irritant within the oyster itself. This irritation causes a material called nacre to envelope the irritant and over time creates a beautiful pearl. Pearls come in different varieties such as cultured Akoya's, freshwater pearls, tahitian pearls, black pearls. Other varieties of pearls are barogues which display an irregular appearance and Mabe pearls that are cultivated blister pearls.
The name "pearl", comes from the latin word, "perula" or small pear. The Chinese were the first to cultivate pearls in saltwater, but over the years they were cultivated in saltwater and freshwater alike. Today, some of the finest cultivated pearls come from Japan. Pearls are associated with purity, wisdom through experience and perfection.
Thought to cemet engagements and love relationships, the pearl is often seen worn by the bride during wedding ceremonies to help prevent newlywed women from crying. Legends and folklore associated with the pearl say that pearls are the tears of mermaids or angels and Chinese myths tell that pearls fall from the sky when dragons fight. They are thought to keep young children safe and secure.
Pearls are often used for thier medicinal purposes are swallowed to aid in digestion, to cure fever, hemorrhages and some eye diseases.
Zodiac birthstone for the sun signs of Gemini and Cancer. Given during the 1st, 3rd, 12th and 30th wedding anniversaries. Pearls are graded by Luster, Surface, Color, Size and Shape.
The name "pearl", comes from the latin word, "perula" or small pear. The Chinese were the first to cultivate pearls in saltwater, but over the years they were cultivated in saltwater and freshwater alike. Today, some of the finest cultivated pearls come from Japan. Pearls are associated with purity, wisdom through experience and perfection. 
