Necklace Details
Pearl (Japan) – Pearls have been desired around the world for more than 4,000 years and associated with the moon, wisdom, and love. Formed when a mollusk slowly coats an irritant with thousands of layers of nacre, the iridescent material responsible for pearl’s lustrous shine and organic shape, Pearls are the only gem that comes from a living creature. In 1893, Kokichi Mikimoto successfully cultured a pearl for the very first time in Japan and in the early 1900s, pearls became a symbol of the Divine Nine Sororities and the inner strength and resilience needed for college-educated Black women to challenge discrimination. Today, Pearl is one of June’s birthstones and given as 3rd and 30th anniversary gifts.
Spinel (Black; rare) – Spinel is a glittering, flashing stone that comes in every color of the rainbow and has a long history of being mistaken for other gems. In fact, the desire to distinguish ruby from spinel, most famously impacting the Black Prince’s “Ruby” in the British Crown Jewels, gave birth to the science of gemology! Like garnet and diamond, this sparkly stone is singly refractive. This rare stone is believed to help with the overall flow of one’s energy and enhance personal growth and happiness. Spinel is one of August’s birthstones and given as a 22nd anniversary gift.
Onyx (Black) – Black Onyx is a form of Chalcedony. This ancient black stone, prized for its dramatic appearance, has adorned jewelry and carvings for thousands of years and is valued for its protective qualities warding off negative influences and helping maintain stable emotional balance.
Sterling Silver – Silver is considered a precious metal and, because of its durability, a tangible representation of lasting love and family bonds. It is also believed to strengthen emotional, mental, and physical well-being by promoting inner peace, alleviating stress and anxiety, and warding off negative energy. Wearing or carrying sterling silver serves as a personal talisman, enhancing one's inner strength and resilience. Silver is given as a 25th anniversary gift.