June’s classic birthstone originates from oceans, lakes and rivers around the world. Though its popularity varies as fashions come and go, pearls are a timeless wardrobe staple, beloved by women of all ages. The origin of pearls fascinated our forebears, from the ancients in the Middle East who believed that pearls were teardrops fallen from heaven to the Chinese who fancied that the June birthstone came from the brain of a dragon. Christopher Columbus and his contemporaries thought that mollusks formed pearls from dew drops.

The June birthstone was also thought to have beneficial properties. In the ancient Sanskrit text, the Atharvaveda, pearls were said to bestow long life and prosperity. In Asia, pearls were believed to help alleviate indigestion and hemorrhages. Some 19th century Arab physicians maintained that pearl powder improved eyesight, quieted nervous tremors and eased depression.

Pearls have long been associated with purity, humility and innocence. As such, pearls were traditionally given as a wedding gift.