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True Meaning of the Pearl Birthstone

Batul Nafisa Baxamusa
Read on to uncover the hidden secrets of the pearl, the birthstone for June. Find out what it means and what it holds in store for you, if it is your birthstone.
"By her who in this month was born
No gem save Pearls shall be worn
They will ensure her constancy
True friendship and fidelity." - Unknown
The pearl is a beautiful gem that is worn with pride by women all around the world. It tends to give the wearer a dignified look. There are various gemstones that are associated with the 12 zodiac signs. These are known as traditional birthstones.
These days, a new system is followed, in which each birthstone is associated with a particular calendar month. The pearl too, is assigned to a particular month and has a particular meaning associated with it.

How is a Pearl Formed?

A pearl is a gem, it's made by a living creature. Pearls are made by oysters, which have bivalve shells that can open and close. This helps the soft-bodied mollusk inside it to eat. When a parasite or irritant enters the shell, it's not able to expel it out.
When this happens, a layer of nacre covers the irritant and a pearl begins to form. The longer the irritant remains in the shell, the more layers of nacre that cover it get formed, causing the pearl to grow.
There are two types of pearls: natural pearls and cultured pearls. Natural pearls are formed in the sea by the process mentioned here. Cultured ones are formed when an irritant is injected inside the oyster's shell. It takes about 2 to 3 years to form a cultured pearl.

Which Month does the Pearl Belong to?

Pearl, the June birthstone, was assigned to it by fortune tellers and soothsayers around the 16th century. It is said that a pearl is the lucky charm for June and will keep the wearers protected from evil and bring good fortune their way.

What does the Pearl Stand For?

The pearl is also considered a lucky charm for the zodiac signs Cancer and Gemini.
It is associated with affection, happiness, love, and generosity. It was held in high esteem by ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Hindus.
The pearl is associated with wealth, loyalty, faithfulness, and friendship. It is said to bring the wearer traits of modesty, chastity, and purity. It is also said to heal problems related to the heart, spleen, stomach, and intestines. It is also said to help in anger management and to increase creativity in the wearer.

Some Trivia about Pearls
The Romans loved pearls to such an extent that women wore them to sleep. Their couches and trappings were covered with pearls to remind them of their wealth. Julius Caesar was also a great patron of this precious gem.
It is said that in order to prove her love for Marc Anthony, Cleopatra dissolved a pearl in wine and drank it. The Greeks considered pearls very sacred to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. It was also considered sacred for Venus, the Roman goddess. Diana, the chaste moon goddess, is said to have loved the white radiance emitted by a pearl.
One of the most famous pearls is said to be La Peregrina (The Wanderer). Its history says that about 400 years ago, a black slave gave it to his master in exchange for his freedom. This pearl was given as a gift to King Philip II of Spain.
This pearl then went on to Mary I of England, and was owned by more royals down the line. It was finally bought by Richard Burton in 1969 and given as a gift to Elizabeth Taylor.