Few things communicate class like pearl jewelry. From Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn to Princess Diana and Jackie Kennedy, women known for their impeccable taste have been wearing pearls for decades, and the appeal of these pieces shows no signs of waning.

As the birthstone for the month of June, it’s no surprise that a pearl is born in a seashell. While it’s well-known that oysters produce pearls, did you know that other mollusks can produce them as well? While most of the pearls that are used in jewelry are indeed produced by oysters, other species (such as mussels and clams) can also make these beauties.

How does a pearl form? First, a foreign substance slips between the oyster’s shell and its mantle, an organ that produces the shell. This irritates the mantle, which responds by coating the intruder in nacre, the same substance that’s used to create the shell. Over time, these layers of nacre build up to create a pearl. Pearls are unique in that, unlike others gemstones which are produced by an inorganic process and mined from the earth, they are produced by a living organism.

Pearl necklaces are probably the most classic way to wear pearls. A strand around your neck instantly communicates a sense of pulled-together style. The 8-9mm White Freshwater Pearl Necklace is always in style, whether you go with the traditional 17-inch design or select a different length. (It’s available in a number of sizes, from 16 inches to opera length, 36 inches.) Choose from a sterling silver finesse clasp or a highly-polished clasp crafted in 14K white gold or 14K yellow gold to allow this necklace to coordinate seamlessly with your jewelry collection.

Strands of pearls aren’t the only way to wear this gemstone in a necklace. Pearl pendants are also elegant options, perfect for adding to your own jewelry collection or giving to any women with impeccable taste. The Natural Fresh Water Pearl & Diamond Necklace in 14K White Gold would be a much-appreciated present for any lady with an affinity for sophisticated style. A single Tahitian pearl, 11 to 12mm, is the star of this Y-style necklace, as it hangs from a flower-shaped bale.Not all pearls are round, however; nor are all of them white. The term “baroque pearls” refers to any pearls that are irregular in shape, and come in a variety of colors. The beauty of baroque pearls lies in their irregularity, and a strand of them is a lovely accent that’s both carefree and classy. For instance, the 8-10mm Tahitian South Sea Multicolor Baroque Pearl Necklace combines several colors of baroque pearls that graduate from 8mm in the back to 10mm in the front.

Pearl rings aren’t quite as classic as pearl necklaces, but they’re every bit as timeless. The Tahitian Pearl & Diamond Sea Breeze Ring gorgeously pairs a stunning 10mm pearl with six accent diamonds to create a style that’s simply stunning. The black Tahitian pearl that serves as the centerpiece of this striking ring instantly communicates sophistication as it sits elegantly between two clusters of round diamonds. A setting of gleaming 18K white gold gives this ring an extra measure of luxury.

Pearl bracelets, like pearl necklaces, instantly communicate class, and like strands that are meant to adorn your neck, these pieces come in a variety of styles.  The 9-10mm Tahitian South Sea Pearl Bracelet gorgeously showcases deep-colored pearls in a simple strand with your choice of a white gold or yellow gold round clasp. Although these dark pearls aren’t quite as classic as their white counterparts, they’re every bit as sophisticated and versatile, and they lend a touch of drama to whatever you wear them with.

While the hue of the 8-9mm Lavender Freshwater Pearl Bracelet is slightly unexpected, it’s more than welcome in any classy lady’s wardrobe.  The light violet color of this strand is subtle and feminine, adding a demure update to a timeless design. If you prefer a slightly warmer take on a pearl bracelet, try a piece that features gold or peach-hued pearls for a look that’s equally sophisticated and refreshing.

Pearl earrings instantly dress up any ensemble, whether you choose a classic white pair or gracefully dangling design. For a look that’s understated but glamorous, try a pair of pearl stud earrings: in any color or size, they’re timeless classy picks. If you can’t decide which color you’d prefer, consider the 7-7.5mm Natural Freshwater Pink, White and Black Pearl Earring Set, which includes pearl studs in three different hues, giving you one that’s perfect for any occasion.

If you’d rather a pair with glamour that’s more head-turning than understated, try a dangling pair such as the 10mm Cultured Pearl Dangling Diamond Earrings. The smooth white luster of a single pearl is complemented by the colorless dazzle of a line of seven diamonds on each piece.

If you’re looking for the sophistication of pearls, but are on a tight budget, try a piece of silver pearl jewelry such as the Sterling Silver Two Become One Pearl Necklace. This unique piece thread two strands, each adorned with a dangling 8mm pearl, through a shining sterling silver heart, creating a picture of two people being woven into one. Cubic zirconia accents the top half of this heart, adding a burst of sparkle. This meaningful pendant is part of the Sentimental Expressions collection, and comes with a poem card, making it perfect for showing your one special someone that you celebrate the bond that the two of you share.

You may have heard the analogy of the “pearl of great price.” This saying comes from the words of Christ:

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”

Jesus used a pearl when explaining the kingdom of heaven because he wanted to show its value. A pearl was a thing that everyone listening would have recognized as something of great worth and beauty—just as we do today.

Until Mother’s Day, all of Apples of Gold’s jewelry is available at 10 percent off! Just enter the coupon code “APPLESMOM10” when you check out to get a lovely gift for mom—or a new piece for your own collection—at a 10 percent discount and have it shipped to you for free!

If you’d like to use this discount to pick the perfect piece for your mom, check out Apples of Gold’s selection of gemstone bracelets. These styles keep colorful sparkle close at hand and create lovely reminder of the way that a mother colors your life.

The Heart-Shaped Amethyst Bracelet in 14K White Gold would be a lovely way to show mom how much you appreciate her constant love and care. Gleaming 14K white gold hearts, each of which is set with a glimmering violet-hued amethyst, are interspersed with long white gold links with a shining finish. These sparkling purple gemstones convey a sense of regal beauty, perfect for any mom who deserves to be treated like a queen. This bracelet is fastened with a secure lobster claw clasp, and is also available with garnet or peridot in place of amethyst.

Pearl stud earrings are a timeless pick for mom, and Apples of Gold carries an array of these earrings, from classic white orbs to less traditional picks such as black pearls, chocolate pearls and peach-colored pearls. For a look that combines tradition with a fresh springtime color, consider the 7mm Lavender Freshwater Pearl Stud Earrings. This pair of round pearl studs has a soft violet hue that sets them apart and that’s perfect for showing your mom that she’s one in a million. This subtle hint of color makes these earrings unique as well as timeless, and she’ll treasure them for years to come.

Gold jewelry of nearly any kind can communicate that you treasure someone: by giving jewelry crafted from a metal that’s both precious and beautiful, you tell the recipient that you value her and hold her dear to your heart. Gold pendants with heart motifs, such as the Hammered Heart Pendant in 14K Gold can be especially fitting picks for moms as they celebrate the steadfastness of a mother’s love and the inner beauty of the heart from which it flows.

How better to celebrate that your mom is a treasure than with a stunning piece of jewelry? And, when better to buy it than the present? Don’t miss your chance to score a lovely piece for mom—or any special lady in your life—at 10 percent off and have it shipped at no charge.

Sterling silver gemstone rings can add an extra pop of color to your wedding ceremony as well as express your appreciation. Consider choosing styles that feature a gemstone that matches your attendants’ dresses and giving it to them at the rehearsal dinner. That way, each bridesmaid will be able to debut her new ring as she precedes you down the aisle. And, since many of these rings can also serve as silver engagement rings, there’s a good chance that you’ll be able to give pieces that complement your own bridal jewelry.

Antique silver gemstone styles add a feminine touch to any bridesmaid’s hand. For example, the Victorian Floral Garnet Ring in .925 Sterling Silver features an intricate filigree design inspired by the ladylike styles that were popular over a century ago, accented with an eye-catching red garnet. Or, for a more modern look with a handmade touch, consider a hammered look such as the Hammered Purple Ocean Sterling Silver Amethyst Ring. This handcrafted ring, with its sizeable amethyst, is simple but stunning.

Sterling silver gemstone pendants are also excellent choices for your bridal party. Simple styles such as the 3.50 Carat Swiss Blue Topaz and Diamond Pendant in .925 Sterling Silver make chic, colorful statements that your attendants are sure to appreciate. Accented by a small diamond, a bold oval-shaped blue topaz is the perfect touch of “something blue” to remind each bridesmaid of your wedding day.

You can’t go wrong with pearls, and a pearl bracelet, necklace or pair of earrings is a lovely way to say thank you to the ladies that helped make your day special. Pearls are a true classic, making them a gift that will always be in style. The Cultured Round Pearl Bracelet 14K Yellow Gold is truly timeless. Its seven inches of perfectly matched 6.5 mm pearls are secured with a 14K yellow gold clasp to form a look that will be treasured for years to come. Add a pair of 6-6.5 mm Cultured Round Pearl Stud Earrings in 14K Yellow Gold to create a coordinated set, or give these earrings alone for an versatile accent that your bridesmaids will be able to wear over and over.

If tradition with a subtle twist better suits your bridesmaids, consider a strand of pearls with a hint of color. Apples of Gold’s 7-8mm Lavender Freshwater Pearl Necklace features AAA quality hand-picked pearls and your choice of a sterling silver, white gold or yellow gold clasp. It’s the perfect mix of modern style and timeless class.

Although you’re the star of your wedding day, don’t forget to acknowledge the ladies who play strong supporting roles. Honoring them with a gift of jewelry is the perfect way to say thanks.