June birthdays, you’re in for something truly special. While most birthstones sparkle and shine, yours glows with an inner radiance all its own. Pearls - June’s birthstone - are the only gem born from a living creature, and their soft, lustrous beauty has made them a symbol of elegance for centuries.
Nature’s Quiet Miracle
Unlike gemstones that are mined from the earth, pearls are formed inside mollusks, layer by layer. When an irritant finds its way inside the shell, the mollusk begins to coat it in a smooth substance called nacre—a natural combination of calcium carbonate and a protein called conchiolin. Over time, these layers build up to create a pearl with that unmistakable, soft glow that is called “orient." Whether they come from freshwater lakes or salty oceans, pearls carry an undeniable sense of mystery and grace.
A Symbol Through the Ages
From Cleopatra to Coco Chanel, pearls have been adored by powerful women throughout
history. In many cultures, they symbolize purity, wisdom, and wealth. Ancient Greeks believed pearls were the hardened tears of joy from Aphrodite, goddess of love. And even today, pearls are often passed down as heirlooms, carrying stories from one generation to the next.
The Many Faces of Pearl
Not all pearls are created equal—and that’s a good thing! Here’s a quick guide to the different types you might encounter:
- Akoya Pearls – The classic. Grown in Japan and China, Akoyas are known for their high luster and perfectly round shape.
- Freshwater Pearls – Cultivated in lakes and rivers, these pearls often come in a range of natural colors and are more affordable without sacrificing beauty.
- Tahitian Pearls – These exotic, dark pearls hail from French Polynesia and shimmer in shades of black, green, blue, and purple.
- South Sea Pearls – Among the largest and rarest, these creamy white or golden pearls are grown in Australia, the Philippines, and Indonesia.
- Baroque Pearls – No two are alike. These irregular, often dramatic shapes are perfect for statement jewelry.
Each type has its own charm—just like every person who wears them.
Famous Pearls That Made History
Some pearls are so iconic, they’ve taken on lives and legacies of their own.
Take La Peregrina, for example—Spanish for “The Pilgrim” or “The Wanderer.” This perfectly pear-shaped white pearl was discovered in the 16th century off the coast of Panama and quickly became one of the most celebrated pearls in the world. Weighing over 50 carats, it was gifted to Spanish royalty and passed through the hands of kings and queens for centuries. In the 1960s, La Peregrina resurfaced - as a Valentine's Day gift from Richard Burton to Elizabeth Taylor. She had it reset in a stunning necklace designed by Cartier, alongside rubies, diamonds, and more pearls. The result? One of the most iconic jewelry pieces of all time. La Peregrina wasn’t just a gem—it was a love story, a royal treasure, and a Hollywood legend rolled into one luminous drop.
There’s also the Pearl of Allah, one of the largest natural pearls ever found—over 14 pounds of ocean-born wonder. And of course, Jacqueline Kennedy’s signature triple-strand pearls, which became a symbol of First Lady chic and understated power.
These pearls didn’t just accessorize—they made statements. Of romance, of royalty, and of timeless glamour.
A Modern Classic
Pearls aren’t just for traditionalists anymore. Modern designers are reimagining pearl jewelry with bold shapes, mixed metals, and edgy settings. Whether you're drawn to a classic strand or a statement piece with baroque pearls, there's a pearl look for every style. Shop some of our pearl jewelry at Augustine jewels, which make a great gift for birthdays this month!
Rose Gold and Morganite Pearl Earrings
Pearl and Diamond Stud Earrings
Stay tuned for the release of our anticipated Santorini collection next week which incorporates lustrous pearls in a chic, modern way to represent the iconic white domes of the gorgeous Summer destination!