Sunstra – Sky Blue Topaz and Fresh Water Pearls

Pearls are formed by molluscs, which coat a nucleus or irritant with layers of nacre. Natural pearls form without human help, while cultured pearls are grown with human intervention.

Birthstone

June

Hardness

2.5–4.5 (Mohs)

Everyday wear

Pearls are very soft and easily scratched, so rings and bracelets need protective settings or occasional wear; necklaces and earrings are easiest to enjoy.

Care

Put pearls on after perfume, hairspray and cosmetics, and wipe them with a very soft cloth after each wear. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners; for an occasional deeper clean use warm, soapy water and let strung pearls dry completely before wearing.

Meaning and tradition

In European tradition pearls symbolised modesty, purity and chastity, and many cultures linked their round shape with the moon. In ancient Chinese folklore pearls were believed to guard against fire and fire-breathing dragons.

Topaz has an exceptionally wide colour range, including colourless, blue, brown, yellow, orange, pink, red and purple. Colourless topaz is plentiful and is often treated to turn it blue.

Birthstone

November

Hardness

8 (Mohs)

Everyday wear

Topaz is hard but has a cleavage direction that can split with a hard knock, so protective settings help, and it is well suited to pendants and earrings.

Care

Clean with warm water and mild soap; avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners, high heat and sudden temperature changes. Coated topaz should never be cleaned with abrasives or on a buffing wheel.

Meaning and tradition

In folklore, the ancient Greeks believed topaz gave them strength, and in Renaissance Europe it was thought to break magic spells and dispel anger. In Indian tradition, wearing it above the heart was said to bring beauty and intelligence.