Just Ask Leslie: Jewelry Tips

As May turns to June, the time has come to write a post dedicated to pearls, the June birthstone. Pearls, which are formed when oysters cover objects with nacre - also known as mother-of-pearl - to form the beautiful, luminescent stones, have been enchanting humans for centuries.

Long associated with weddings, another June tradition, pearls are still popular with brides. The ancient Greeks believed that wearing pearls to a wedding promoted marital bliss and prevented young brides from crying. Weddings in the 14th and 15th century were literally pearl affairs, with everyone from the bride to the guests, even the male guests, adorned with this precious stone.

The stunning diamond and cultured pearl ring pictured above highlights the pearl’s beauty, and at $295 makes an excellent gift for a June birthday.

This strand of elegant freshwater pearls (shown to the left) makes a beautiful addition to any ensemble, and would look lovely worn over a bride or bridesmaid’s dress.