Birthstones have been an accepted and cherished tradition for centuries. Typically gifted in various forms of jewelry, most commonly for birthdays and anniversaries, these beautifully unique treasures quickly became one of the most popular presents for any occasion!
That being said, I'm so excited to announce our new monthly blog feature - Birthstone of the Month! And what better time to kick off these shiny new articles, than with the month of June - my very own birth month!
Each month, not only will you get some interesting facts about the birthstone(s) associated with the coordinating month, but also a deeper insight into how I use that birthstone in my designs.
Brief History of Birthstones
Scholars trace the origin of birthstones back to the Breastplate of Aaron, as described in the Book of Exodus in the Bible. The Breastplate boasted 12 unique gemstones that represented the 12 tribes of Israel. It was a religious garment with specific symbolism regarding the tribes. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that gemstones began to be assigned according to birth month. According to scholars, the tradition of month-specific birthstones began in Poland. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers defined the modern day list of birthstones, and the list has remained unchanged.
June Birthstone - the classic Pearl
Not only is Pearl my very own birthstone, which I personally adore wearing, but it's also one of my all time favorite gemstones to work with! Being rooted in the Low Country, I was particularly inspired by the region to design the pieces that generated our popular Pearl Collection. Although classic on their own, my pearl pieces are more than just “your grandma’s pearls"! The collection combines timeless beauty with a modern twist and incorporates Southern charm with organic, subtle flow.
The designs are inspired by none other than the oysters Savannah is known for! With accents of sterling silver and patina (the dark finish behind the silver), combined with the wave-like dish backings, these pearl pieces have rapidly become among one of our most popular collections.
Our Most Popular Pearl Designs
Not only do I truly enjoy making these stunning pieces of jewelry, but they've also become some of our best selling pieces! Check out several of our customer favorites:
- Our Double Pearl Earrings add hints of movement to the luster of the natural pearl. The delicate freshwater pearls hang tapered, each balanced against an ethereal oyster shell.
- The Pearl Ripple Ring and the Mini Pearl Ripple Ring are the striking beauties in their simplest form—as the freshwater pearl reveals itself from its shell. This ring is an elegant expression meant to be worn forever.
- No look is complete without a coordinating bracelet! The Pearl Splash Cuff imports your classic statement pearls into this fabulous modern world. Full of movement and fun, this cuff carries the natural luster of a pearl on a journey with no definitive beginning or end.
- And don't forget the necklace! Our popular Pearl Necklace and Mini Pearl Necklace are the first pieces that originated the Pearl Collection designs. Highlighting the organic bond between the strength of the outer shell and its coveted, intimate form, the necklaces feature a splash of the classic freshwater pearl with a hint of a modern backdrop.
Did you know...
Here, at Kristen Baird®, we use freshwater, half-drilled pearls, in a variety of sizes and colors (white, peach, and lavender). The pearls are double-secured with posts and epoxy, ensuring that those babies aren’t going anywhere!
But, the very best part of it all, is the versatility of each piece - wear it on your wedding day or every day, layer it or show it off as a floating solitaire.
