The practice of associating gemstones with specific months, and thus with the individuals born within them, has a rich and complex history. While modern birthstone lists are standardized, the tradition itself evolved over centuries, influenced by astrological beliefs, religious significance, and evolving cultural preferences. Among the gemstones linked to the month of June is Mother-of-Pearl, a captivating organic gem often featured in jewelry designed for children, particularly boys, as evidenced by the growing popularity of dedicated birthstone necklaces. This article will explore the characteristics of Mother-of-Pearl as it appears in contemporary jewelry, specifically focusing on its use in necklaces designed for young boys, drawing exclusively from available sources.
Historical Context and Modern Adaptation
The sources provided do not detail the ancient history or traditional lore surrounding Mother-of-Pearl. However, they highlight a modern adaptation of birthstone symbolism through personalized jewelry. The “Seed” collection by OliviaR, for example, emphasizes the profound journey of parenthood and the growth of family bonds, framing birthstone jewelry as a tangible reminder of these connections. This suggests a shift in focus from purely astrological or mystical associations to a more personal and sentimental value. The emergence of custom birthstone necklaces, particularly those designed for children, reflects a desire to commemorate significant life events and celebrate individuality.
The availability of birthstone necklaces specifically for boys, as offered by multiple vendors, indicates a conscious effort to move beyond traditionally gendered jewelry designs. While historically, certain gemstones and styles were marketed towards specific genders, the current trend embraces inclusivity, offering options for both boys and girls.
Gemological Properties of Mother-of-Pearl
Mother-of-Pearl, also known as nacre, is not a mineral in the traditional sense but an organic composite material produced within the shells of certain mollusks. The sources indicate that it is the birthstone for June and symbolizes purity and serene beauty.
Specifically, the necklace described by Born to Rock Jewelry features a heart-shaped Mother-of-Pearl charm. The charm measures 0.787”x0.444" (2.3x1.15cm) and is constructed with a 18k yellow gold plated brass setting. The chain is a 16-18" adjustable cable chain made of yellow gold plated stainless steel, measuring 1mm in thickness. It is important to note that stainless steel contains low quantities of nickel.
The sources also acknowledge that, as a natural gemstone, Mother-of-Pearl is not typically “clean” internally, meaning it often contains inclusions. This is a characteristic of natural gemstones and contributes to their unique appearance. The color of Mother-of-Pearl can vary slightly, as noted by Born to Rock Jewelry, due to the natural variations within the material.
Manufacturing and Materials
The necklaces described utilize a variety of materials. US Jewels offers pendants made of 14k yellow gold, featuring a synthetic stone and a cubic zirconia face. This indicates that not all birthstone jewelry utilizes natural gemstones; synthetic alternatives are frequently employed, particularly in more affordable options. The pendant measures 17mm in length and 8mm in width. A choice of chains is available, though details regarding chain materials are not provided.
OliviaR utilizes 14k gold or sterling silver for their “Seed” collection necklaces, which are handmade to order in Los Angeles. The chain length is adjustable, ranging from 16-18 inches. Born to Rock Jewelry uses 18k yellow gold plated brass for the charm and stainless steel for the chain.
Purchasing and Return Policies
US Jewels provides a detailed return and exchange policy, allowing customers to return items within 30 days for a full refund or exchange, provided they are in new, unused condition with original tags and packaging. They offer a prepaid return shipping label for convenience. Items that have been used, damaged, or altered, as well as personalized or customized items, are not eligible for return. A customer service team is available via phone (888-826-3265) and email ([email protected]) to assist with returns and exchanges.
Market Availability and Retailers
Cool Jewels’ corporate website lists “Birthstone Necklaces” as a product category, indicating a broad market for this type of jewelry. They categorize their offerings further, including sections for “Boys and Unisex Jewelry.” The website also features a wide range of other jewelry types, including animal jewelry, astrological sign jewelry, and semi-precious stone jewelry. Cool Jewels provides a comprehensive list of countries and currencies for international sales.
Born to Rock Jewelry, OliviaR, and US Jewels are also retailers offering birthstone necklaces, each with its own unique style and price point. The availability of these products through multiple vendors suggests a significant consumer demand for personalized birthstone jewelry.
Charitable Contributions
Born to Rock Jewelry incorporates a charitable component into its business model, donating $1 from each sale to the organization "Pés Livres." This demonstrates a growing trend among businesses to align themselves with social causes and contribute to charitable organizations.
Summary of Gemological Data
The following table summarizes the gemological and material properties of the necklaces described in the sources:
| Feature | Born to Rock Jewelry | US Jewels | OliviaR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gemstone | Mother-of-Pearl | Synthetic Stone | N/A (Material only) |
| Metal | 18k Yellow Gold Plated Brass | 14k Yellow Gold | 14k Gold or Sterling Silver |
| Chain Material | Stainless Steel | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Charm/Pendant Dimensions | 0.787”x0.444" (2.3x1.15cm) | 17mm x 8mm | N/A |
| Chain Length | 16-18" Adjustable | Not Specified | 16-18" Adjustable |
| Face Stone | N/A | Cubic Zirconia | N/A |
Conclusion
The available sources, while limited in scope, demonstrate a contemporary trend of utilizing birthstones, specifically Mother-of-Pearl, in personalized jewelry designed for children. The emphasis has shifted from traditional lore to sentimental value, with necklaces serving as tangible reminders of family bonds and individual identity. The use of both natural and synthetic materials, coupled with varying price points and charitable initiatives, reflects a diverse and evolving market catering to a wide range of consumer preferences. The increasing availability of birthstone jewelry specifically designed for boys indicates a move towards more inclusive and gender-neutral designs. While the historical and metaphysical aspects of Mother-of-Pearl are not detailed within these sources, the modern application of this gemstone in children’s necklaces highlights its enduring appeal and symbolic significance.