June birthstone: pearl and moonstone
If you were born in June, you have a choice: both pearl and moonstone are June birthstones. Both have a soft lustre rather than sparkle, and you see both of them a great deal in vintage jewellery.
- Colour
- Pearl white to pink, moonstone milky white with a blue sheen
- Hardness (Mohs)
- Pearl 2.5 – 4.5, moonstone 6 – 6.5
- Alternative stones
- Alexandrite
In stock now: pearl and moonstone jewellery
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14 kt gold earrings with amethyst and pearl
€795,00
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Silver drop earrings with blue topaz and pearl, 925 sterling silver
€115,00
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925 silver drop earrings with citrine and pearl
€120,00
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925 silver stud earrings with blue topaz and pearl
€165,00
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925 sterling silver stud earrings with blue topaz and pearl
€110,00
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Silver pendant with emerald and pearl, 925.
€155,00
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Gold ring with citrine and pearl, 14 kt
€795,00
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18 kt rose gold vintage brooch with opal, pearl, and ruby
€775,00
Pearl
A pearl is not a mineral: it grows inside a mollusc. For centuries natural pearls were extremely valuable. In the early twentieth century it became possible to cultivate pearls, and cultured pearls have been the norm ever since. In vintage jewellery you will find both.
Pearls are soft, with a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5. Put them on last and take them off first, and keep them away from perfume and hairspray. If a pearl necklace has become loose, you can have it restrung by us. If you would like to learn to do it yourself, take a look at our pearl stringing workshop.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a feldspar with a soft blue or white glow that seems to move across the stone. This sheen is called adularescence. Moonstone was particularly popular in the Art Nouveau period, around 1900, often in silver or gold jewellery with natural forms. With a hardness of 6 to 6.5, moonstone is a little more delicate than most gemstones, which makes it ideal for earrings and pendants.
Also for June: alexandrite
Alexandrite is sometimes mentioned too, a rare stone that changes colour under different light. Read more about pearls and moonstone.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a natural pearl and a cultured pearl?
A natural pearl forms without human help, whereas with a cultured pearl the pearl farmer introduces the nucleus. Both are real pearls.
Can I have my pearl necklace restrung?
Yes, we do that. If a necklace has become loose or the thread has become dirty, we will restring it.
How do I care for moonstone?
With lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Take a moonstone ring off for heavy work, as the stone is more sensitive to knocks.
