June is unique among the calendar months, possessing not one, but three recognized birthstones: alexandrite, pearl, and moonstone. While pearl historically held the sole designation for June, the modern list includes the relatively recent discovery of alexandrite, and continues to honor the longstanding tradition of moonstone. Each gemstone carries its own distinct history, geological origins, and symbolic meaning, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in the sixth month of the year.
A Historical Perspective
For many years, the pearl was the undisputed birthstone of June. Its association with femininity, wisdom, and transformation dates back centuries, appearing in myths and legends across numerous cultures. Pearls were believed to enhance intuition and connect individuals to spiritual realms, and were traditionally used for fertility and easing childbirth.
Alexandrite, however, is a newcomer to the birthstone family. Discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in 1834, it was named in honor of the future Czar Alexander II. The discovery story is somewhat debated, with several individuals – Finnish mineralogist Nils Gustaf Nordenskiöld, Ural Mine manager Vasilevich Kokovin, German mineralogy professor Gustav Rose, and Russian mineralogist Count L.A. Perovskii – all potentially playing a role in its initial identification and naming. Count Perovskii ultimately presented the gem to Alexander II on his 16th birthday, solidifying its connection to the Russian royal family. Initially, Russia was the sole source of alexandrite, but by the 1890s, the mines were nearly depleted. Later discoveries occurred in Brazil (1987), Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe.
Moonstone also boasts a rich history, with references appearing in Roman and Greek mythology, and within Hindu traditions where it was believed to be solidified moonbeams. Pliny the Roman historian, named the gemstone ‘moonstone’ due to its shimmery look relating to the phases of the moon.
Geological Formation and Sources
Pearls are unique among gemstones as they are organic in origin, formed within mollusks as a defense mechanism against irritants. When a substance like sand enters the shell, the mollusk secretes layers of nacre – composed of calcium carbonate – around the irritant. Over time, these layers build up, creating the pearl’s characteristic luster. Natural pearls, formed without human intervention, are rare and typically small and irregularly shaped. The majority of pearls available today are cultured pearls, grown on pearl farms where the irritant is intentionally inserted.
Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, responsible for its remarkable color-changing property. It forms in metamorphic rocks, often in pegmatites. The original source, and historically the most prized, was the Ural Mountains of Russia. However, significant deposits have since been found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe.
Moonstone is a feldspar mineral, exhibiting a pearl-like luster when light penetrates the stone. This effect is caused by the scattering of light between thin, alternating layers of albite and oligoclase or orthoclase within the mineral structure.
Gemological Properties
Alexandrite’s most defining characteristic is its pleochroism, the ability to display different colors depending on the light source. Under normal circumstances, it appears yellow-green to greenish-blue, but under polarized light, such as sunlight, it dramatically shifts to shades of red, dark purple, or orange. The most valued alexandrites exhibit a vivid green to bluish-green in daylight and a deep red to purplish hue under incandescent light. The purity, degree, and proportion of this color change are key factors in determining its value. Cat's eye alexandrites, displaying a chatoyant effect, are particularly rare and valuable.
Pearls are judged on their luster, nacre quality, shape, size, and color. Akoya pearls are often considered the highest quality cultured pearls, known for their round shape and bright luster. Freshwater pearls, while typically more irregularly shaped, can exhibit thicker nacre and a wider range of colors.
Moonstone’s signature optical phenomenon is adularescence – a floating, internal glow caused by light scattering within its layered structure. The best moonstones are colorless with a pure blue adularescence, though they also occur in shades of peach, green, and orange. Chemically, moonstone is a form of feldspar.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color | Optical Phenomenon | Hardness (Mohs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandrite | Beryllium Aluminum Oxide (Chrysoberyl) | Yellow-green to greenish-blue, Red to purple | Color Change, Pleochroism | 8.5 |
| Pearl | Calcium Carbonate | White, Cream, Pink, Black, etc. | Luster, Iridescence | 2.5 - 4.5 |
| Moonstone | Feldspar | Milky White, Gray, Peach, Green, Blue | Adularescence | 6 - 6.5 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Alexandrite, due to its color-changing nature, has often been compared to the complexities of love, representing different facets of affection. Some cultures interpreted its color changes as indicators of danger. It is also associated with heightened intuition and pleasure.
Pearls have long been associated with femininity, wisdom, and transformation. Their lunar connection is believed to enhance intuition and connect individuals to spiritual realms. They are also traditionally used for fertility and easing childbirth.
Moonstone represents love, passion, and fertility, and is considered a bearer of good luck. It is believed to bring magical and beautiful dreams, and has been used as a cure for insomnia and sleepwalking. Known as ‘The Traveller’s Stone’, it was used as a protective charm for nighttime journeys.
Care and Cleaning
Alexandrite, with a Mohs hardness of 8.5, is relatively durable but should still be handled with care. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Pearls, being relatively soft (2.5-4.5 on the Mohs scale), are susceptible to scratches and damage from chemicals. They should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and abrasive materials. It is recommended to re-string pearls annually to prevent breakage.
Moonstone, with a hardness of 6-6.5, requires gentle handling. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
June’s trio of birthstones – alexandrite, pearl, and moonstone – offer a captivating blend of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the regal origins of alexandrite to the timeless elegance of pearls and the ethereal glow of moonstone, each gemstone provides a unique and beautiful representation of the month of June. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or perceived metaphysical properties, these birthstones continue to captivate and inspire.