Freshwater Pearl Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold

This is an 18 inch strand of 4.5 to 5mm cultured white freshwater pearls finished with a solid 14K yellow gold fish-hook clasp.

The piece

• Clasp: Solid 14K yellow gold fish-hook clasp
• Pearls: Cultured white freshwater, 4.5 to 5 mm
• Length: 18 inches
• 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. A strand like this one has been a gift for milestones for generations, from graduations to weddings. More in our guide to the June birthstones.

A gemologist’s note

At 4.5 to 5mm, these pearls sit close to the collarbone and layer easily with a fine gold chain. Freshwater pearls vary slightly in shape and surface; that variation is a natural trait of cultured freshwater pearls.

Care

Pearl is soft, 2.5 to 4.5 on the hardness scale. Put it on last and take it off first; perfume and lotion dull the nacre. Lay the strand flat to store it and wipe it with a soft, damp cloth after wearing.