Considered one of the most fascinating and feminine of all gemstones, the pearl is the only gem that is created by a living organism, being minute crystals of calcium carbonate that are produced within the soft tissue of various species of living mollusks, most notably pearl oysters.

The most desirable and most valuable pearls are smooth and round in appearance, though other shapes of pearls (known as baroque pearls) can also be found. Sizes can also vary, usually from around 5mm in diameter to over 15mm. 6.5mm to 7mm pearls are the most common in necklaces.

Although natural pearls - those that are formed without any human intervention - can be found, nearly all pearls on the market today are formed with human intervention, usually on a pearl farm, and are known as cultured pearls. To the naked eye, however, the difference between natural and cultured pearls is not easy to see.

The unique lustre of the pearl is one of its main attractions, and is created when rays of light are absorbed into the gem and reflected back out through the inside layer (known as the nacre). Though pearls are most famous and most widely available in white, they can also be dyed colors such as green, blue, pink and purple.

Pearl jewelry adds style and sophistication to any outfit, and a great number of stylish pieces can be found that contain pearls of all colors and sizes. Earrings, rings and bracelets are all popular forms of pearl jewelry, but perhaps the most famous item is the pearl strand necklace. These can vary in length from around 17 inches to over 45 inches, with the shortest varieties being the choker, mid-length necklaces being the matinee and the opera, and the longest variety being the rope necklace.

Pearl jewelry makes for an extra special birthday, Christmas or anniversary present, and that special piece can be found for that special lady of all ages.