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How a pearl forms
A pearl forms when a mollusk, such as an oyster or mussel, coats an irritant with thin layers of nacre. Natural pearls are now very rare, and most pearls on the market are cultured, meaning people place a small bead or tissue inside the mollusk and let it build nacre around it. Cultured pearls are real pearls, just farmed.
What it is traditionally associated with
In many cultures, pearls stand for purity, calm and quiet wisdom, partly because of their soft glow. In crystal culture they are sometimes linked with the crown chakra and with gentle, steady energy. These are symbolic readings, and a pearl is a keepsake, not a remedy for any condition.
History and culture
Pearl is the traditional birthstone for June, and it has a long history in jewelry, from necklaces to wedding accessories. A string of pearls is a classic gift for graduations and weddings, and a thirtieth anniversary is traditionally marked with pearl.
Everyday ways to use it
- Wear a strand or stud earrings for a June birthday.
- Keep a loose pearl in a small dish as a quiet desk object.
- Give a pearl pendant to mark a graduation or wedding.
- Hold a pearl while you take a few slow breaths before a big event.
Care and cleaning
Pearls are soft and sensitive to acids and chemicals. Put them on last, after makeup, hairspray and perfume, and wipe them with a soft damp cloth after wearing. Never use ultrasonic cleaners or household cleaners. Store them separately in a soft pouch so harder stones do not scratch them, and restring a necklace when the thread looks worn.
Real or fake?
Imitation pearls are usually glass or plastic beads with a coating. A classic home check is to rub a pearl lightly against your tooth edge: a real one feels slightly gritty, while a fake feels smooth. A jeweler can confirm whether a pearl is natural, cultured or imitation.
Pairing with other stones
Pearls look elegant with moonstone or rose quartz, and with ruby or sapphire in more formal sets. These pairings are about style and personal meaning only.
Questions people ask
Are cultured pearls real?
Yes. They grow inside a mollusk and are made of real nacre, but people start the process.
Which month is pearl the birthstone for?
Pearl is a traditional birthstone for June.
Why do pearls lose their shine?
Contact with perfume, sweat and cosmetics can dull the nacre, which is why wiping them after wear helps.
Can I wear pearls every day?
You can, but they scratch and dull easily, so remove them for exercise and cleaning.