A pearl is a hard object produced within the soft tissue (specifically the mantle)
of a living shelled mollusk. Just like the shell of a mollusk, a pearl is made up of calcium carbonate in minute crystalline form, which has been deposited in concentric layers. The ideal pearl is perfectly round and smooth, but many other shapes of pearls (baroque pearls) occur. The finest quality natural pearls have been highly valued as gemstones and objects of beauty for many centuries, and because of this, the word pearl has become a metaphor for something very rare, fine, admirable, and valuable.
Valuable pearls occur in the wild, but they are very rare. Cultured or farmed pearls from pearl oysters make up the majority of those that are currently sold. Pearls from the sea are valued more highly than freshwater pearls. Pearls have been harvested and cultivated primarily for use in jewelry, but in the past they were also stitched onto lavish clothing. Pearls have also been crushed and used in cosmetics, medicines, or in paint formulations.
I love pearls and have many designs in the Bridal Collection as well as many
everyday designs. The range of shapes and colors of pearls make them one of the most versatile gems in your jewelry box. Check out my designs with button, rice, coin, and keshi shapes.
Happy Birthday June!
Shannon
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl
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