Pearls are among the earliest of gem materials used for personal adornment. Enraptured by their luminescent shades, the Ancient Greeks once believed they were tears of joy from Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love. The only gemstone to be produced by a living organism, this gemstone epitomises incredibly rare and unique wonders in nature, as a symbol for purity and modesty. It also denotes love, success and happiness, so is often presented as a wedding gift, as well as being the birthstone for June. Quite different from other polished gemstones, their unique 'orient' is a result of subtle iridescence and a surface reflection of light. They are commonly white, golden, grey, brown and black in colour, with various iridescent tints including pink, green, blue and lilac.