Beyond the Birthstone: 8 Vintage Pearls for June

Pearls aren't the only birthstones of June - there's also Alexandrite and Moonstone - but they do seem to be worn the most by June babies. Traditionally, pearls have unfairly been associated as our Grandmothers' favorite, but according to modern trends,this is no longer the case. Pearls are being seen everywhere now, even more so now that we are transitioning into the warmer months. Pearls are a huge part of the spring and summer trends of 2019, which gives us a great opportunity to look trendy while breaking out our vintage pearls! Gift this birthstone to your favorite Geminis and Cancers or simply buy them for yourself. In the month of June, there are more reasons than ever to rock your favorite pearl accessories.

Bracelets

1. 14K YELLOW GOLD CULTURED PEARL BRACELET
ESBR4273 || $905 || SHOP NOW

2. MIKIMOTO CULTURED PEARL BRACELET
ESBR4301 || $770 || SOLD OUT

From ancient times to modern day, pearls have been used to adorn royalty. Commonly believed to attract wealth and luck, pearls have also been known to offer protection. Pearls are said to create a calming effect for its wearer, balancing karma and strengthening relationships. Symbolizing purity, integrity and loyalty, pearl birthstones are great to gift for a special occasion or first birthday. When worn correctly, pearl bracelets also produce a look that of sophistication and modern glamour. A designer white cultured pearl bracelet, like the Mikimoto bracelet shown above, can look amazing and chic if you pair it accordingly with your clothes and other accessories.

Earrings

1. 14K YELLOW GOLD GREY CULTURED PEARL AND DIAMOND EARRINGS
ESER6647 || $335 || SHOP NOW

2. 14K WHITE GOLD CULTURED PEARL AND DIAMOND EARRINGS
ESER6920 || $420 || SHOP NOW

The beauty of pearl earrings is that they can be worn everyday, for formal events, and for date night, all producing a different look and attitude based on how you wear them. The key is to know your pearls. Based on their color and hue, you can coordinate them accordingly with the color of your skin, eyes, hair and outfit. Traditional white pearl earrings, shown last in the video above, are classic and versatile. These have the ability to work well with any outfit or occasion. Grey pearls on the other hand are similar to traditional white pearls but with an added dimension and sophistication. These are great for a first-time pearl buyer or for a classic pearl lover looking to branch away from their go-to look. Equally beautiful, but with a bit more intrigue, grey pearl earrings are the epitome of elegance.

Necklaces

1. 1. ANTIQUE NATURAL PEARL DIAMOND NECKLACE
      ESNK5672 || $2,400 || SEE IN STORES

ANTIQUE 14K YELLOW GOLD CULTURED FRESHWATER PEARL AND SAPPHIRE PENDANT
ESNK5602 || $695 || SHOP NOW

Being the only gemstone made from a living creature, natural pearls of value are found in less than one in every 10,000 wild oysters! This is because natural pearls are formed when an irritant just happens to get into the soft tissue of the mussel in an oyster. As a result, the oyster (a living creature), produces secretions to coat the irritant as a defense. Layers upon layers coat the irritant which causes it to form a smooth pearl. The chances of this occurring are extremely rare! This is why so many pearls we see used today are considered cultured pearls. Although both are "real" pearls and made the same way, the difference is that cultured pearls are originated by human intervention. A shell bead is purposefully inserted into the oyster as opposed to nature running its course. This allows us to have ample supplies of pearls to be made into the beautiful jewelry we're accustomed to wearing. Although, if you can find jewelry made of natural pearls like the antique natural pearl necklace above, that is a real find!

Rings

1. 1. 1. 18K WHITE GOLD CULTURED FRESHWATER PEARL AND DIAMOND RING
      ESRG8020 || $395 || SHOP NOW

   2. 14K ROSE GOLD CULTURED PEARL RING, RUSSIA
   ESRG7961 || $395 || SHOP NOW

Similar to that of a zodiac sign, your birthstone can also say a lot about you. Most believe that your birth month can have a significant impact on your personality, characteristics and traits that you showcase to the world. Throughout history, birthstones have been known to have symbolic powers or qualities and that by wearing your birthstone, it will help you connect to the qualities they possess. Pearls have long been a symbol of purity, loyalty and clarity. Maybe by donning your pearl birthstone, you too could possess these symbols. Now we can't necessarily prove this or say this is true one way or the other but we can say that it is a great excuse to show a little more love to your June birthstone. Plus, pearls are pretty! Whether you choose to incorporate them into your personal style with a bracelet, necklace, pair of earrings or a great statement ring, pearl jewelry just works!

Which estate pearl piece is your favorite? Browse our full vintage & estate online collection or visit us in stores to see more vintage and estate birthstone jewelry!