Freshwater Pearl Stud Earrings in 14K Yellow Gold

These are 6 to 6.5mm cultured white freshwater pearl stud earrings on solid 14K yellow gold posts, sold as a pair with friction backs.

The piece

• Metal: Solid 14K yellow gold, never plated or filled
• Pearls: Cultured white freshwater, 6 to 6.5 mm
• Backs: Friction backs included
• Sold as: A pair
• Made: In the USA
• Returns: Eligible under our return policy (stock design, never engraved or sized)

The stone

Pearl is one of June’s birthstones and one of the few gems formed by a living animal: a mollusk coats an irritant in layers of nacre until it glows. Freshwater pearls are cultured in mussels in lakes and rivers, and their nacre is especially thick. More in our guide to the June birthstones.

A gemologist’s note

A 6mm pearl is the size our gemologist recommends for a first pair of studs: large enough to catch light at the ear, small enough to wear every day. Look closely and you will see soft, natural variation in shape and surface, a natural trait of cultured freshwater pearls.

Care

Pearl is soft, 2.5 to 4.5 on the hardness scale. Put pearls on last and take them off first; perfume, hairspray and lotion dull the nacre. Wipe with a soft, damp cloth.