Updated as of June 2026
Pearl
An organic gem from mollusks, long a symbol of purity, wisdom, and grace.
Price range$5 to $500/ct
Hardness (Mohs)2.75
ColorsWhite, Cream, Pink, Black, Gold
BirthstoneJune
AltGems Score How we score
4.2/10
Pearl pros and cons
Pros
- A recognized birthstone (June)
- Available in white, cream, pink, black, gold
Cons
- Softer at Mohs 2.75, best in protected settings
- Commonly treated (bleaching)
Pearl is best kept for earrings, pendants, and protected settings rather than rough daily wear.
Explore Pearl
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestPearl jewelry
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Setting this softer stone (Mohs 2.75) in an exposed daily-wear ring instead of a protective bezel or halo.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Very soft and easily scratched. Wipe with a soft damp cloth after wear. Keep away from perfume, cosmetics, acids, and ultrasonic cleaners.
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Where to buy Pearl: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pearl?
An organic gem from mollusks, long a symbol of purity, wisdom, and grace. It rates 2.75 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in white, cream, pink, black, gold.
How much does Pearl cost?
Pearl typically runs about $5 to $500 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Pearl price guide for detail.
Is Pearl good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 2.75 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Pearl?
Pearl earns an overall AltGems Score of 4.2 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Pearl?
Very soft and easily scratched. Wipe with a soft damp cloth after wear. Keep away from perfume, cosmetics, acids, and ultrasonic cleaners.