Pearl {mukta} the birthstone for June. Pearl, often referred to as the "Queen of Gems," is a classic piece of jewellery. It is formed in shellfish as a reactant to an irritant such as a piece of sand. Cultured pearls are created by adding a piece of mussel or shell inside an oyster, which then creates a pearl as layers inside the shell grow over the alien substance. The prices of pearls vary widely as a result of luster, size, color, type and how they were cultured. Natural pearls are the most expensive, followed by cultured pearls with Fresh water pearls relatively less expensive. Pearls are said to help in self discovery and improve self-worth. Natural pearls are considered to be one of the nicest gifts you can give to your loved ones. It allows the wearer to see the love of the person who gave them the pearls. The Pearl is an emblem of modesty, chastity and purity, symbolizing love, success, and happiness and in many countries is used as a wedding gift. Pearls were once thought to be the tears of God.