June Birthstone: Pearls and How to Care for Them

Deborah Oakes, NPS
Birthstones by Month

The June birthstone is Pearl. Gemini and Cancer are sun signs. According to folklore, pearls promise love and a happy marriage to June births. Who doesn't think of Audry Hepburn, Jacquline Onassis or Michelle Obama without an image of pearls coming to mind? The June birthstone is a favorite. Learn how to care for pearls here.

June Birthstone: Pearls and How to Care for Them

Pearls need special care whether they are cultured, freshwater or saltwater. Their surface is very porous so they absorb body oils, perspiration, and cosmetics which damage the surface. So, they should be worn touching clothing rather than skin. Always apply hair spray, makeup, hand cream and perfume before putting on pearls.

June Birthstone: Pearls and How to Clean Them

Wipe pearls with a soft cloth every time after wear. Use a dry or damp cloth. If damp, let pearls air dry before storage. Dirty pearls are cleaned with mild soap and water. Check with your jeweler. Never use solutions with ammonia or harsh detergents and don't use an ultrasonic cleaner either.

June Birthstone: Pearls and How to Store Them

Store pearls flat to prevent the cord from stretching. Separate pearls from other jewelry when storing or place in a cloth bag. Pearls should be checked by a jeweler at least once a year to see if restringing is necessary.

Origin of Birthstones by Month

Many believe the Breastplate of Aaron is the origin of birthstones by month. The description in Exodus 28, 15-30 states the twelve stones of the Twelve Tribes of Israel are set in four rows. These gemstones correspond to the zodiac sun signs of the time.

June Birthstone: Pearl Facts

Archaeological evidence from 6,000 years ago found people were sometimes buried with a pierced pearl resting in the right hand. Natural pearls are rare with only one found in every 10,000 mollusks. Most pearls worn today are cultured pearls.

June Birthstone: Pearls as Gifts

Natural pearls are sold by carat weight and cultured pearls are sold by millimeter size. Fresh water pearls are given on the First Wedding Anniversary. Pearls are also given on the 3rd, 12th and 30th anniversaries. Whatever the sun sign, birthstones by month gifts are personal and treasured. The June birthstone comes in a variety of jewelry choices which last longer when you know how to care for pearls.

Click here and save for other birthstones by month articles.

Source:
Author's Experience with Pearls
amnh.org/exhibitions/pearls/what/index.html

June Birthstone: Pearls and How to Care for Them copyright 2009.

Published by Deborah Oakes, NPS

Certified National Product Specialist, Author: "H1N1 Threat Reduced Using Natural Healthcare" and "Home & Hearth Recipes."  View profile

  • June Birthstone: Pearls and How to Clean Them
  • June Birthstone: Pearls and How to Store Them
  • Origin of Birthstones by Month
Natural pearls are sold by carat weight and cultured pearls are sold by millimeter size.

5 Comments

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  • Dan Reveal8/9/2009

    I think your birthstone articles are great. You covered mine with the Opal. My mom's is Diamond.

  • Pikie7/1/2009

    Great info. I know people who have gotten beautiful pearl jewelry and then ruined it because they've let it sit in ammonia based jewelry cleaner.

  • Jennifer Wagner5/29/2009

    Great information and very well written. Excellent use of SEO too!

  • Thomas Lane5/28/2009

    I don't know anything about gemology, but I am concerned that I have not been getting notified about your articles. I know AC failed to notify about my most recent one. That is why I conduct periodic sweeps among my favorites.

  • Danielle "L"5/28/2009

    Pearls and How to Care for Them is another great article for gem and jewelry lovers!

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