June and February, while separated by months, share a fascinating connection within the world of birthstones. While modern lists have expanded options, these months boast gemstones steeped in history, lore, and unique gemological properties. June is uniquely represented by three birthstones – pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone – while February is traditionally associated with amethyst. This article will delve into the origins, characteristics, and significance of these captivating gems, drawing upon historical accounts and modern gemological understanding.
A History of Birthstone Designation
The concept of associating specific gemstones with months of the year has ancient roots, evolving over centuries. Early traditions often linked gemstones to the zodiac signs, with connections to months developing later. Ancient lists, passed down through millennia, differed significantly from modern designations. The traditional gemstone guide has been in play for the past 500 years, while the modern list of birthstones has only been formulated and used for the past 100 years or so. The first changes to the modern birthstone chart occurred in 1952, with the addition of alexandrite to June, citrine to November, pink tourmaline to October, and zircon to December. Further additions, like Tanzanite in 2002 and spinel in 2016, demonstrate the ongoing evolution of these associations. Today, individuals often choose from both traditional and modern lists, selecting stones that resonate with them personally.
February’s Amethyst: Clarity and Calm
Amethyst, the birthstone of February, has a long and storied past. Records of its use extend back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was fashioned into vessels for beverages. A prevalent belief held that the stone could prevent intoxication, a testament to the ancient association between amethyst and clear thinking. As a gemstone, it presents a stark contrast to the June birthstones, particularly alexandrite. While alexandrite displays a dynamic range of colors, amethyst is consistently violet.
Chemically, amethyst is a naturally occurring quartz, known for its clarity and calm. It is less durable and valued than alexandrite, but its accessibility and aesthetic appeal have ensured its enduring popularity. Amethyst is the rarest birthstone in nearly every state, potentially due to February being the shortest month of the year.
June’s Trio: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
June stands out as one of only three months with three designated birthstones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. This offers a diverse range of options, catering to different tastes and budgets.
Pearl: A Timeless Treasure
The pearl, a classic and elegant gemstone, has been admired since ancient times, perhaps even before its formal designation as a June birthstone. Its origins fascinated ancient cultures. In the Middle East, pearls were believed to be teardrops fallen from heaven. The Chinese associated them with the brains of dragons, while early explorers like Christopher Columbus theorized they formed from dew drops within mollusks. Pearls originate from oceans, lakes, and rivers around the world, and their timeless appeal makes them a wardrobe staple for many. The name "pearl" itself comes from the Latin word ‘Perna,’ referring to the leg-of-mutton shape of an open mollusk shell.
Alexandrite: Emerald by Day, Ruby by Night
Alexandrite, the most modern of June’s birthstones, is renowned for its remarkable color-changing ability. Described as “emerald by day, ruby by night,” this phenomenon is due to pleochroism, a property where the gemstone exhibits different colors when viewed under different light sources. Under normal circumstances, alexandrite appears yellow-green to greenish-blue, but under polarized light, such as sunlight, it transforms into shades of red, dark purple, or orange.
The most prized alexandrite displays a vivid green to bluish-green in daylight or fluorescent light and a deep red to purplish hue in incandescent light. This rare exhibit of colors is often likened to the complexities of love, making it a meaningful gift. Alexandrite is a valued form of the mineral chrysoberyl, responsible for its color-changing property.
Moonstone: Solidified Moonbeams
Moonstone, the third June birthstone, is famous for its adularescence – a shimmering effect where light appears to stream across the gemstone, creating a special glow. The Roman historian Pliny named it “moonstone” to relate its shimmery look to the phases of the moon. The most valued moonstones exhibit a blue sheen when placed against a white background.
Throughout history, moonstone has been interwoven with mythology. It was associated with Roman and Greek lunar deities and featured prominently in Hindu mythology, believed to be made of solidified moonbeams. Moonstone represents love, passion, and fertility and is considered a bearer of good luck. Some cultures used it as a cure for insomnia and sleepwalking, and it was known as “The Traveller’s Stone,” used as a protective charm for nighttime journeys. Chemically, moonstone is a form of the mineral feldspar, producing a pearl-like luster when light penetrates the stone. It often appears milky white or gray with a silvery glow, resembling the moon’s radiance. Pink, orange, near-colorless, blue, or multicolored moonstones are also found in nature.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
While a detailed gemological comparison is limited by the provided sources, some distinctions can be drawn. Alexandrite is demonstrably harder and more durable than amethyst. Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, while amethyst is a naturally occurring quartz. Pearls are organic gemstones, formed within mollusks, and their properties differ significantly from crystalline gemstones like amethyst, alexandrite, and moonstone.
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Relative) | Notable Property |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amethyst | Quartz (SiO₂) | Relatively Lower | Violet Color |
| Alexandrite | Chrysoberyl (BeAl₂O₄) | Higher | Color Change |
| Pearl | Calcium Carbonate | Lowest | Organic, Luster |
| Moonstone | Feldspar | Intermediate | Adularescence (Sheen) |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of these birthstones carries symbolic weight. Amethyst has long been associated with clarity and calm, while pearls symbolize purity and innocence. Alexandrite, with its dynamic color change, is often seen as a symbol of balance and transformation. Moonstone represents love, passion, and fertility, and is believed to bring good luck and enhance intuition. These symbolic meanings contribute to the enduring appeal of these gemstones.
Care and Cleaning
Due to the varying properties of these gemstones, care and cleaning methods differ. Pearls, being organic, are relatively soft and require gentle handling. They should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, avoiding harsh chemicals. Amethyst and alexandrite, being more durable, can withstand more rigorous cleaning, but ultrasonic cleaners should be used with caution. Moonstone, with its delicate structure, should also be cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soap.
Conclusion
February and June birthstones – amethyst, pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone – represent a rich tapestry of history, lore, and gemological beauty. From the ancient beliefs surrounding amethyst’s ability to prevent intoxication to the captivating color change of alexandrite and the ethereal glow of moonstone, these gemstones continue to fascinate and inspire. Their enduring appeal lies not only in their aesthetic qualities but also in the symbolic meanings they carry, making them cherished possessions for generations to come.