Mother-of-pearl are valued as gemstones although they are not actually minerals, but organic gems.

Because mother of pearl is formed as the direct result of irritation, it is thought to hold the key to how we can overcome oppression and pain, and example of how to turn the insignificant into the sublime and beautiful. The mother-of-pearl is thought to signify faith, charity and innocence and to enhance personal integrity. It has been used in the treatment of digestive disorders and is thought to increase fertility and ease childbirth. The mother-of-pearl is one of the birthstones for June (with moonstone and alexandrite), symbolizing health and longevity.