Most are cultivated in large oyster farms where a small seed is placed in the oyster and allowed to become coated with nacre. Pearls come in a wide range of colors. They should be relatively free from skin blemishes. The more perfectly round the shape the better. The larger the pearl, the greater the value.
Pearls represent modesty, chastity and purity.
They have also come to symbolize a happy marriage. July is the month of the ruby. Sister to the sapphire, the ruby is red corundum. The finest color is a vivid, almost pure spectral red with a very faint undertone of blue, as seen in Burmese rubies, which are considered the finest. Rubies are believed to protect their owners.