What is a moonstone?

• Moonstone, a semi-precious gemstone, belongs to the feldspar group, making up more than half of the Earth’s crust.
• The moonstone is known for its unique optical phenomenon, adularescence. This is an ethereal glow that moves beneath the surface of the stone, reminiscent of the moon’s glow.
• Moonstone comes in a variety of colors, including white, blue, peach, and rainbow. The most prized among these is the blue moonstone due to its rare and captivating glow.
• Moonstone is formed from the mineral orthoclase, and its unique shimmer is caused by the light diffraction within its internal structure.

Lore and legend

• The ancient Romans admired moonstones and believed they originated from the solidified rays of the moon. They associated these gems with their lunar deities, particularly the goddess Diana, and considered them a symbol of hope and purity.
• In traditional Indian mythology, moonstones are considered sacred. During full moons, people often display moonstones on a yellow cloth—a sacred color—to bring good fortune. Some Indians also believed these stones could bring the wearer beautiful visions at night.
• In Europe during the Middle Ages, people believed that moonstones could reconcile estranged lovers and instill tranquility and calmness.
• In Asian cultures, people often associate moonstones with the ability to provide foresight and clear thinking. They are commonly used in jewelry and talismans.
• Today, many people consider moonstone a stone of inner growth and strength. It’s said to soothe emotional instability and stress and promote inspiration, success, and good fortune in love and business matters.

Symbolism and significance

• As a birthstone for June, it represents the month’s themes of love, fertility, and vitality. Its connection to the moon symbolizes cycles, growth, and transformation, reflecting the changes we all go through in life.
• Moonstone often symbolizes femininity due to its connection with the moon, traditionally considered a feminine symbol. It’s also associated with motherhood and fertility, and some cultures use it as a protective amulet for pregnancy and childbirth.
• The moonstone’s unique glow symbolizes light in dark times, guiding the wearer through challenges and toward success. It is also believed to foster emotional balance, peace, and harmony, making it a perfect gem for those seeking tranquility and emotional well-being.

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Pearl Type

The main cultured pearl types available are Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian, and freshwater pearls. Akoya pearls are small and silvery white, making them versatile for everyday wear. South Sea and Tahitian pearls are larger with vibrant overtones ideal for statement pieces, while freshwater pearls come in an array of bright colors and more affordable price points. Therefore, consider the intended style and formality of the piece when selecting between the pearl types, which vary in size, luster, and color intensity. Focusing on one dominant type can simplify your jewelry search.

Pearl Shape

When selecting a pearl shape, focus first on the silhouettes you find most visually appealing. Classic round and oval shapes tend to work well for both formal and casual jewelry, while uniquely shaped pearls like baroque can make a bold statement. Consider too how the pearl might look once set in its intended piece – rounds often balance well anywhere, while some shapes may suit select styles over others. Above all, let your individual aesthetic preferences guide you to the shapes that feel harmonious with your personal beauty without worrying excessively about rules. After all, a pearl’s beauty is in bringing joy to its wearer.

Pearl Luster

The way light reflects off a pearl’s smooth inner surface is known as its luster. Luster can vary depending on factors like nacre thickness and quality of cultivation. In general:

• High-luster pearls have a mirror-like shine that seems to glow from within. They often come from skillful cultivation and signify top quality.

• Semi-luster pearls still gleam brightly, though the shine may not be as crisp or far-reaching across the surface. Most pearls fall into this desirable category.

• Some irregularly shaped or thin-nacre pearls display a duller, cloudier luster concentrated near the center. This slightly diminished luster doesn’t detract from their beauty.

Consider how the pearl and its intended setting could flatter different luster qualities. Dressier styles suit higher luster well, whereas more casual looks pair with a range. Overall, pearls that emit an alluring radiance are appealing in appearance and value.

Pearl Color

The natural hues of cultured pearl span from classic white and cream to more rarely seen colors. Whites range from icy silvers to warm off-whites, with creams possessing a subtle yellow tint. In addition to white, other common pearl shades include gold, pink, and gray depending on the mollusk species. More unusual genuine colors emerge from nature’s mysterious alchemy in rare South Sea and Tahitian pearls, where tones of emerald, indigo, purple, and peach command premium prices. Regardless of where pearls originate or their specific shades, the ideal pearls dazzle with a balanced saturation and undertone that stirs your soul. Focusing on colors that spark your own sense of style is key rather than rigid categories when selecting those meant for you.

Pearl Grade

The pearl is graded based on various factors like luster, surface quality, shape, size, and color. Top-grade pearls, AAA or AA, boast near-flawless spheres with vibrant hues and mirror finishes, commanding top prices. Grade A pearls feature minor imperfections. Grade B pearls, while still radiant, may show texture variations or duller tones, appealing to value-conscious buyers. Grade C pearls display more visible imperfections, reduced luster, and irregular shapes, offering budget-friendly choices. Grade D pearls, the least expensive, exhibit significant flaws, poor luster, and irregular shapes, providing economical but lower-quality options. Therefore, consider preferences and budget when selecting pearls for the ideal balance of quality and value.

Where to Purchase Pearl Jewelry

When it comes to purchasing exquisite pearl jewelry, look no further than SHE.SAID.YES, especially with our latest jewelry collection, Ocean’s Whisper. Each piece in this collection is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to highlight the timeless allure and radiant charm of the pearl. Whether you’re looking for a classic necklace, elegant earrings, or a stunning bracelet, SHE.SAID.YES offers a range of options to suit every style and occasion. Explore the Ocean’s Whisper collection for a touch of sophistication and elegance that will elevate any look.

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What is a pearl?

• Generally, pearls are formed from the mantle tissue of the mollusks, especially from oysters, usually around a microscopic irritant.
• The English word pearl comes from the French Perle, originally from the Latin word Perna. Means leg, after the ham- or mutton leg-shaped bivalve.
• No one really knows the exact time of jewelry use of the pearls. But it has been recorded in the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD). Then, the Chinese hunted extensively for seawater pearls in the South China Sea.
• Although the most common hue of pearls is white or cream, it also owns a variety of colors. Range from black, green, and gold to pink. Some pearls even appear in the iridescent phenomenon known as orient.

Lore and legend about pearl

• The ancient Greeks believed that the pearls had a magical relationship with the Aphrodite. They considered that the goddess of love and beauty was born out of the sea completely naked and with gorgeous pearls around her neck. And also, in some Greek legends, pearls were the tears of gods, a concept that prevailed for thousands of years.
• It is reported that Egypt’s last sovereign, Cleopatra made a bet with her lover Marco Antonio to demonstrate her wealth. She claimed that she’d spend 10 million sesterces on a meal. Then she filled her glass with vinegar, threw off her pearl earring into it, waited for it to melt, and finally drank it to win this gamble.
• In ancient China, people believed that dragons carried pearls between their teeth. And if a real hero wants to get “A pearl of wisdom,” he needs to kill the dragon to prove himself.
• Some old Japanese folktales told that pearls were created from the tears of mythical creatures like mermaids and fairies.

Symbolism and significance of pearl

• For centuries, pearls have been the ultimate symbol of wisdom, honesty, and purity worldwide. And in many other cultures, they have been a symbol of love and good luck as well.
• Valued for their calming effects, pearls represent serenity while strengthening valuable relationships and conveying a sense of safety.
• Also, pearls are the third Wedding anniversary gemstone for many couples.

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