June is uniquely blessed with not one, but three recognized birthstones: alexandrite, pearl, and moonstone. Each gemstone carries its own distinct history, lore, and gemological properties, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in this summer month. While the pearl historically held the sole designation as June’s birthstone, the modern list now includes the captivating color-changing alexandrite and the ethereal moonstone, each with its own compelling story.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific birth months dates back to ancient times, with beliefs centered around the stones’ purported magical powers, healing properties, and ability to bring luck and prosperity. The practice gained prominence in Western cultures, and the designation of birthstones evolved over centuries. For June, the pearl boasts the longest history as a recognized birthstone. Ancient cultures held pearls in high regard, with beliefs varying across regions. In the Middle East, pearls were considered teardrops fallen from heaven, while the Chinese believed they originated from the brains of dragons. Even Christopher Columbus attributed their formation to dewdrops gathered by mollusks.
Alexandrite, a more recent addition to the birthstone list, has a history rooted in 19th-century Russia. Discovered in the Ural Mountains in the 1830s, it was named in honor of the future Czar Alexander II, as its distinctive color change – displaying green in daylight and red under incandescent light – mirrored the colors of the Russian imperial military. Moonstone’s history is equally rich, with connections to Roman and Greek lunar deities and Hindu mythology, where it was believed to be solidified moonbeams. Pliny the Roman historian, coined the name ‘moonstone’ to relate the gemstone’s shimmery look with the shift in the moon's phases.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, responsible for its color-changing property. Initially discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia, current sources include Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa. Pearls, unlike other gemstones, are organic in origin, formed within mollusks as a defense mechanism against irritants. They are found in oceans, lakes, and rivers worldwide. Moonstone is a form of the mineral feldspar, exhibiting a pearl-like luster due to the way light interacts with its internal structure.
Gemological Properties
Alexandrite is prized for its remarkable pleochroism, the ability to display different colors depending on the direction of light. Ideally, it exhibits a vivid green to bluish-green in daylight or fluorescent light and a deep red to purplish hue under incandescent light. This color change is what makes it so valuable.
Pearls are judged by their luster, color, size, shape, and surface quality. Natural pearls are typically white or cream-colored, while cultured pearls are available in a wider range of colors, including pink, blue, purple, brown, and black.
Moonstone’s defining characteristic is its adularescence – a shimmering, billowy effect caused by light scattering within the stone. The most valued moonstones display a blue sheen against a white background. Moonstone can appear milky white or gray, with a silvery glow, and can also be found in pink, orange, near-colorless, or multicolored varieties.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color(s) | Luster | Notable Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandrite | Chrysoberyl | Yellow-green to greenish-blue, Red/Purple | Vitreous | Color Change (Pleochroism) |
| Pearl | Calcium Carbonate | White, Cream, Pink, Blue, Black | Pearly | Organic Origin |
| Moonstone | Feldspar | Milky White, Gray, Blue, Pink, Orange | Pearly/Adamantine | Adularescence |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of June’s birthstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Alexandrite is often associated with luck and prosperity, and its changing colors are likened to the complexities of love. The pearl has long symbolized purity, innocence, and faith, and is often associated with weddings and new beginnings. Moonstone represents love, passion, and fertility, and is believed to bring good luck and inspire beautiful dreams. Some cultures even used it as a remedy for insomnia and sleepwalking, referring to it as “The Traveller’s Stone” and utilizing it as a protective charm for nighttime journeys. Alexandrite is also associated with heightened intuition and pleasure.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their differing properties, each June birthstone requires specific care. Alexandrite, with a hardness comparable to topaz, should be protected from harsh impacts and abrasive materials. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Pearls, being relatively soft organic gemstones, are susceptible to damage from chemicals, cosmetics, and even perspiration. They should be cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, and stored separately from other jewelry. Moonstone, also relatively soft, should be handled with care and cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone’s adularescence.
Conclusion
June’s trio of birthstones – alexandrite, pearl, and moonstone – offers a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the color-changing magic of alexandrite to the timeless elegance of pearls and the ethereal glow of moonstone, these gemstones continue to enchant and inspire. Whether valued for their aesthetic appeal, their historical significance, or their purported metaphysical properties, these June birthstones remain cherished symbols of love, luck, and lunar magic.