This month the birthstone for anyone celebrating a birthday in June or has the star sign of Gemini or Cancer (21 to 30 June) is pearl. Pearls symbolise purity, calmness, faith and truth. They are believed to bring luck, health and prosperity. Telling someone who is about to purchase a pearl that it is formed by a living organism, may not inspire them. But the facts behind how they are created is fascinating.

If you were born in May you might not know that your birthstone is Emerald. The stone relates to nature, fertility, harmony, peace and serenity. Whilst emerald as a colour is uplifting and relates to an abundance of wealth, prosperity and the emotion of love and wellbeing. Together both the gemstone and the colour make a formidable combination. With flowers in bloom and nature in abundance at this time of year, there could be no better fitting colour or gemstone.