Pearl jewelry
Handcrafted pearl necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, made to order in our Colorado studio. Set in sterling silver, 14K gold-fill, and solid 14K gold.
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About pearl
Pearl is a an organic gem formed inside mollusks, composed of nacre layers of aragonite and conchiolin around an irritant or seed rated 3 on the Mohs hardness scale, Pearls rate 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, far softer than most gemstones. For context, sapphire is 9 and diamond is 10. Pearls require gentle care: store them separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching, avoid contact with perfumes, hairspray, and cosmetics, and wipe with a soft damp cloth after wearing. Never use ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals on pearls.. Its color ranges from white to cream, with overtones ranging from rose to silver to gold, and natural variations including black Tahitian and golden South Sea pearls, with the most prized stones showing even saturation and high clarity.
Pearls are among the oldest known gems, treasured across cultures for thousands of years. Unlike mineral gemstones, pearls form inside living mollusks when an irritant becomes coated in layers of nacre. Today most pearls on the market are cultured, meaning the process is initiated by hand and then completed by the oyster or mussel over months or years. Major sources include Japan, China, French Polynesia, and Australia.
Historically, pearl has been associated with purity, wisdom, and quiet strength. In crystal healing and metaphysical traditions, pearls are associated with feminine energy and emotional balance. They are linked to integrity, calm under pressure, and graceful resilience. Practitioners often use them as a stone for clarity in relationships and the kind of strength that does not announce itself, themes that align with June's bridge between spring and summer.
Pearl vs moonstone
Same color family, different stones. Here's how to choose.
Pearl
Pearl and moonstone are entirely different. Pearl is an organic gem formed inside mollusks and rates 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs hardness scale; moonstone is a feldspar mineral and rates 6 to 6.5. Pearl shows the soft surface luster of nacre; moonstone shows adularescence, an internal glow that seems to float just beneath the surface as light moves across the stone.
Moonstone
Both are June birthstones with a soft luminous quality, but they handle differently. Moonstone is harder and more practical for ring settings, while pearl is the more classic and instantly recognizable choice for necklaces and earrings. If you are deciding between the two, pearl offers the timeless elegance; moonstone offers a more ethereal, less expected look at a similar price point.
Born in June?
Pearl is one of three modern birthstones for June June birthstones, alongside pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone are all modern birthstones for June. For people who follow birthstone jewelry traditions, pearl makes a timeless gift for anyone born in June. Its soft luminescence flatters every skin tone, the look reads as elegant from dressed up to dressed down, and the symbolism of quiet strength makes it as meaningful for milestone moments as for everyday wear.
See all June birthstones on the June birthstone jewelry hub.
Shop June birthstone jewelryShop more
Made to order in Colorado
Every pearl piece is handcrafted to order in our Steamboat Springs studio, shipped in about 10 business days, and arrives in eco-friendly gift packaging.
Pearl Jewelry - FAQ
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Is pearl the birthstone for June?
Yes. Pearl is the primary birthstone for June, alongside alexandrite and moonstone. Pearl is the most popular of the three June birthstones and has held this designation since the early 1900s. It is also the traditional gemstone for 3rd and 30th wedding anniversaries.
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Can I wear pearl jewelry every day?
You can wear pearl jewelry daily with proper care. Pearls rate 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them softer than most gemstones. Put pearls on last (after perfume and hairspray), wipe with a soft cloth after wearing, and store them separately from harder stones to prevent scratches.
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How can you tell if pearls are real?
Real pearls feel slightly gritty when rubbed gently against your teeth, while imitations feel smooth. Genuine pearls also have subtle surface irregularities, feel cool to the touch initially, and are heavier than synthetic alternatives. All pearls at Erin Gallagher Jewelry are genuine freshwater or baroque pearls.
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What is the difference between freshwater and saltwater pearls?
Freshwater pearls come from mussels in rivers and lakes, while saltwater pearls (Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea) come from oysters in the ocean. Freshwater pearls tend to be more affordable and come in a wider variety of shapes, while saltwater pearls are typically rounder with higher luster. Both are genuine pearls.
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What makes Erin Gallagher pearl jewelry different?
Every piece is handcrafted in Steamboat Springs, Colorado using genuine freshwater and baroque pearls set in 14K gold, gold-fill, or recycled sterling silver. We offer both classic round pearl designs and modern baroque styles. Orders over $150 ship free, and every order arrives gift-ready.
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What zodiac signs are associated with pearl?
Pearl is associated with both Gemini (May 21 to June 20) and Cancer (June 21 to July 22), the two zodiac signs that span June. Pearl complements Gemini's communicative nature and Cancer's nurturing qualities, making it a meaningful gift for anyone born under either sign.