Pearl: One of the Birthstones of June
Pearl is one of the birthstones for the month of June, and the traditional pearl is making a big comeback in the fashion world. Long regarded as the most formal and traditional of gemstones, pearls are now considered fashion-forward and trendy! Men, as well as women, are embracing pearl jewelry.
Pearls have been cherished for centuries for their natural beauty and rarity. They’re unique in that they are the only gemstone created by a living creature, the mollusk, and not formed over long periods on Earth. The mollusk can live in both saltwater and freshwater, and each creates distinctive-looking pearls in size and color. They are considered an “organic” material because they are formed by a living creature.
Pearls come in so many beautiful colors – pastel to bright and bold – including white, black, pink, gray, and even gold. The value of a pearl is determined by factors such as its size, shape, and luster. Generally, the larger and rounder the pearl, the more valuable it is.
Saltwater pearls like Akoya Pearls from Japan, Hanadama Pearls, Tahitian Pearls, White South Sea Pearls, and Golden South Sea Pearls—can range in size from very tiny like 2-3mm up to 10-12mm+ for the South Seas Pearls. They come in a broad range of shapes and sizes and a wider variety of colors, including different shades of green, black, pink, gold, and blue.
Freshwater pearls are typically farmed in China and are not grown in the mollusk for as many years as the Akoya pearls are, so their layers of nacre coating are not as thick. They are, therefore, less expensive and more abundant than the Akoya pearls. They can be white, off-white, or cream, but you can also find them in pastel shades of pink, lilac, and peach. These pearls are found in a wider variety of shapes…from round to off-round to more free-form.
When a pearl is an unusual shape, it is typically known as a baroque pearl, and they can make a strand of pearls or a necklace or earring design quite unique.
Ultimately, pearls add a touch of elegance and style to any outfit, and there are many different ways to incorporate pearls into your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own unique style!
Pearl Bridal Jewelry
Many brides choose to accessorize their bridal look with pearls. They desire pearls on their dresses, hair accessories, and veils. Pearl strands or necklaces, earrings, and bracelets complement their bridal gowns. With the many shapes, colors, and styles of pearl jewelry, pearls can help create a unique look for a bride’s special day. After the wedding day, this jewelry becomes a cherished part of any woman’s jewelry wardrobe.
Pearls for a 30th Wedding Anniversary
In addition to being a birthstone or a gem perfect for a wedding day, pearls are a traditional gift for the 30th wedding anniversary as a symbol of your love’s beauty, rarity, and enduring quality. A 30th wedding anniversary is a special milestone for any couple. It marks three decades of love, commitment, and dedication to each other. Pearls are unique gems that symbolize purity, wisdom, and loyalty and represent the time and effort it takes for a relationship to grow and mature.
There are so many options when it comes to gifting pearls: a pearl necklace, earrings, ring, or bracelet. The jewelry designs have become quite fun and bold….not just your grandmother’s pearl strand look!
Yes, Men are Wearing Pearls Too!
In recent years, the trend of men wearing pearls has gained popularity in the fashion industry. Pearls have always been considered a symbol of elegance and sophistication, and men have started embracing this trend to add a touch of glamour to their outfits. And while pearls are often thought of as a feminine accessory, there are many ways which men can wear pearls to celebrate the occasion. According to Men In Pearls —Why the Trend is Here to Stay, the trend started in 2016 with Pharrell Williams wearing pearls on the catwalk. The trend really took off in 2021 when actors, rappers, and musicians were spotted wearing pearl necklaces.
One way is to wear a pearl tie pin or cufflinks. These small but elegant accessories can add a touch of class to any outfit and can be worn with both formal and casual attire. Another option is to wear a pearl necklace or bracelet. This may seem unconventional for men, but pearl jewelry can actually be quite versatile and stylish. A simple strand of pearls can add a touch of sophistication to a suit or dress shirt, while a chunkier pearl necklace or bracelet can add a more modern and edgy vibe.
Men feeling particularly bold and not afraid to make a statement might choose to wear a single pearl earring or a pair! While this may not be for everyone, it can be a fun and unexpected way to incorporate pearls into your wardrobe statement.
Ultimately, the key to wearing pearls as a man is to embrace the elegance and beauty of the pearl and to wear it with confidence and pride. Whether you choose a subtle accessory or a bold statement piece, pearls are a timeless accessory for even the manliest of men! Men wearing pearls is a trend that is here to stay.
Caring for your Pearl Jewelry
When caring for pearl jewelry, it’s important to keep in mind that pearls are delicate and require special attention. They should be kept from harsh chemicals and not be exposed to extreme temperatures. Simply wipe pearls with a soft cloth dampened with water and mild soap to clean them.
Never expose your pearls directly to perfume or hairspray; these can damage the lustrous outer nacre coating of the pearl, causing it to deteriorate and lose its beauty. Be sure to use hairspray and perfume first, let it dry, and then put on your pearl jewelry. It’s also wise to have your strands of pearls restrung every 7-10 years, depending on how often you wear them.
Pearls are strung with silk thread and can wear out and break, so always check with your jewelry professional if it’s time to get them restrung. It’s always best to have the pearls strung with knots in between each bead in case your strand breaks, as then you’ll only lose 1 or 2 pearls off the ends vs. the entire strand coming undone.
