Pearl Jewelry Guide: Meaning, Types, and Care Tips

Pearls are more than just a beautiful accessory. As June’s birthstone, they carry deep meaning, symbolizing purity, wisdom, and timeless grace. From classic Akoya to bold Tahitian and unique baroque styles, pearls come in many forms, each with its own charm. 

Whether you're choosing your first strand or adding to a growing collection, understanding the types of pearls and how to properly care for them ensures they remain radiant for years to come. In this guide, we’ll explore the meaning behind pearls, how to choose the right type for you, and the best ways to clean and protect these delicate gems.

The Meaning Behind Pearls

Pearls are the only gemstones created by living organisms, formed within mollusks when layers of nacre wrap around a grain of sand. Symbolically, pearls represent purity, wisdom, and serenity, making them a meaningful choice for those born in June.

Pearls represent June birthdays because they are one of the official birthstones for the month of June, alongside moonstone and alexandrite. June marks the start of summer, a season of beauty and change. Pearls naturally represent transformation: a tiny grain of sand becomes a radiant gem. This aligns with the growth, maturity, and transformation often associated with birthdays.

Types of Pearls to Know

Not all pearls are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most popular varieties:

• Akoya Pearls – Classic white pearls known for their brilliant luster.
  
  

• Freshwater Pearls – Affordable and versatile, often in various colors.
  
  

• South Sea Pearls – Larger and rarer, often golden or white.
  
  

• Tahitian Pearls – Naturally dark, these pearls offer a dramatic, modern look.

Choosing the best type of pearl for you comes down to personal style, budget, occasion, and how you plan to wear them. If you’re looking for timeless everyday elegance (think Audrey Hepburn vibes), then Akoya pearls are a perfect choice. Tahitian pearls are known to draw in the fashion-forward with their unique shapes and bold tones. 

If you’re looking for something minimalist and dainty, freshwater pearls can be a good option as they are smaller, affordable, and easy to layer. While South Sea Pearls are the largest and most valuable, they are ideal for high-end gifts and occasions.

How to Care for Your Pearls

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Because pearls are organic gemstones, they’re more delicate than diamonds, rubies, or sapphires. With the right care, they can last generations. Here are essential tips to keep them glowing:

Pearls are sensitive to perfume, hairspray, makeup, and cleaning products. These substances can erode the nacre and dull their luster. Apply your beauty products first, and let them dry before putting on your pearls.

Store Them Separately

To prevent scratching, store pearls in a soft pouch, silk bag, or lined jewelry box, away from harder gems or metals. Avoid plastic bags, which can emit chemicals that harm pearls. 

Unlike other gems, pearls benefit from a bit of moisture in the air. Avoid storing them in airtight safes or boxes for long periods, as this can cause them to dry out and crack.

Clean Gently

Wipe pearls with a soft, damp cloth after wearing to remove body oils and residue. For a deeper clean, use lukewarm water and a mild soap. Never put pearl jewelry in an ultrasonic cleaner or abrasives. 

Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency vibrations and sound waves to dislodge dirt. While effective for metals and hard gemstones like diamonds or sapphires, they’re too aggressive for pearls. Abrasives include powders, toothpaste, baking soda, or anything with a gritty texture that can scratch or wear away the nacre of the pearl.

Pearls in San Francisco

Pearls are more than just beautiful, they’re timeless symbols of purity and inner strength. As June’s birthstone, they make a meaningful gift and a chic addition to any jewelry collection. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or adding a touch of sophistication to your everyday look, pearl jewelry offers versatility and lasting style.

Shop your perfect pearl piece now or make a showroom appointment to find something as unique as you are.