June's Birthstone is Pearl
The Pearl is said to symbolise peace, nobility and beauty. A pearl is the product of an oyster's defence mechanism. When a foreign irritant is introduced either by man (cultured) or naturally, the oyster immediately surrounds it with layers of a substance called nacre. This forms the exquisite gemstone know as pearl.Colour: Pearls come in a wide range of colours. They should be as perfectly round as possible and relatively free from blemishes. The higher the lustre, or "orient," the more valuable the specimen. The larger the pearl, the greater the value.
History: Ancient mythology connected the pearl to the moon because of its soft, glowing appearance and the belief that pearls were teardrops from the moon that fell into the sea. The ancient Chinese believed pearls had the power to perpetuate eternal youth. Even today, pearls are often ground up and used in Chinese cosmetics and serums to promote youthful looking skin. Pearls have been recognised as an emblem of modesty, chastity and purity, and have come to symbolise a happy marriage. Moonstone is sometimes an alternative considered by those born in June since it looks very similar to some pearls. Moonstone is the gift for lovers as it symbolises passion, and lovers have an obvious affinity for the night. It was also believed to bestow the power of clairvoyance, being at its most powerful when the moon is decreasing in size.
Found in: Natural pearls are found in Seas off Bahrain, Australian Indian Ocean plus many other seas. Cultured pearls can be cultivated anywhere.