Did you know that June actually has three birthstones? Alexandrite, moonstone and pearl; but for this we will be focusing on the pearl.
History
"No sparkling gemstone or glittering jewel has fascinated people for thousands of years quite lik ethe pearl. Signifying purity and virtue, love and widsom, ower and status: Pearls were believe to emanate mystical, healing powers. Roman women slept with Pearls to sweeten their dreams. Asian culture ground them into power for remedies and skin treatments. Undoubtedly, many an ill can be eased with beautiful Pearls!
Pearls also have a history as the wedding gem. Ancient Hindu writings tell the story of Krishna, he protector, who gathered Pearls from the sea to give to his daughter on her wedding day the start of a centuries-old tradition of Pearls as teh perfect adornment of the bride. To this day, Pearls are a personal favorite of brides, as well as the treasured wedding gift from parent or partner to signify love."
Origins
"Pearls are produced in certain salt and freshwater mollusks when in response to a tiny intruder lodged within, the shell soothes the irritation by enveloping it in layers of calcium carbonate - mother-of-pearl or nacre.
In the wild, this happens rarely, one in about 10,000 shells. But most Pearls today are cultured - science collacorating with nature to engage and nurture this natural process. Introduced in Japan at the turn of the 20th century, Pearl cultivation requires seeding technicians who skillfully insert in the mollusk a mother-of-pearl bead and/or mantle tissue as the intruder that sparks nacre production."
Care
"Pearls are resilient and meant to be worn, but they are also delicate and require thoughtful care to keep their radiance for a lifetime. The layers of nacre that create it are absorbent, so that things like cosmetics, hairspray, perfume, ammonia, and chlorine affect Pearl condition.
Pearls are easy to maintain, just wipe clean after each wear with a soft, dry or damp cloth. Ultrasonic cleaners are not recommended."
Stop in Destin, Florida and see our selection of pearls, wether you are looking for studs or a strand or looking for a piece from your favorite designer with accents for pearls.
