June is a uniquely blessed month in the world of birthstones, boasting not one, but three distinct and captivating gems: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. These stones offer a spectrum of beauty, symbolism, and price points, providing a personalized option for those born in the sixth month of the year. While the search query specifically mentions tungsten bracelets, the provided sources focus entirely on the gemstones themselves, and therefore this article will concentrate on the properties, history, and significance of pearl, alexandrite, and, to a lesser extent, moonstone, as detailed within the available materials.
History and Lore
Pearls hold the longest and most extensively documented history of the three June birthstones. Revered across cultures for millennia, they were considered symbols of purity, wealth, and power. Ancient Greeks believed pearls were the solidified tears of joy shed by Aphrodite, the goddess of love, while Chinese mythology associated them with dragons and wisdom. The historical record is replete with examples of pearl’s esteem; Cleopatra famously dissolved a pearl in vinegar to demonstrate her power and affection to Marc Antony. Throughout history, pearls have adorned royalty and been exchanged as tokens of love and status.
Alexandrite, while more recent in its recognition as a birthstone, also carries a fascinating history. Its discovery in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 19th century coincided with the second marriage of Czar Alexander II, from whom the gem derives its name. This association with Russian royalty further enhanced its allure.
The sources indicate that the addition of moonstone as a June birthstone was a more recent development, intended to provide a more affordable alternative to the often-prohibitively expensive alexandrite and, historically, the rare natural pearl.
Geological Formation and Sources
Pearls are unique among gemstones in that they are organic, formed within living oysters. They originate when an irritant – a grain of sand, a parasite, or another foreign object – enters the oyster’s shell. As a defense mechanism, the oyster coats the irritant with layers of nacre, a substance composed of calcium carbonate, creating the lustrous pearl. The quality of a pearl is determined by the orient, the iridescent sheen caused by the refraction of light through these nacreous layers, and the lustre, the surface reflectivity and shine.
Alexandrite’s formation is more typical of a mineral gemstone, requiring a specific geological environment rich in beryllium. Its scarcity is directly linked to its chemical composition and the rare combination of elements needed for its creation. The original source of alexandrite was the Ural Mountains of Russia, but it is now also found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa, though high-quality specimens remain exceptionally rare.
The sources do not provide specific details regarding the geological formation or sources of moonstone.
Gemological Properties
Pearls are assessed based on several key characteristics. These include size, shape, color (with rose tints being particularly favored), and surface quality. A simple test to distinguish between natural/cultured pearls and imitations involves gently rubbing the pearl against a tooth; natural and cultured pearls will feel slightly rough due to the texture of the nacre, while imitations will feel smooth like glass.
Alexandrite is prized for its remarkable color-changing ability. In daylight, it typically appears bluish-green, while under incandescent light, it shifts to a soft shade of red, purplish-red, or raspberry red. The intensity of this color change is a primary factor in determining its value. A strong and noticeable color change, combined with clarity and a well-proportioned cut, are key considerations when purchasing alexandrite.
The provided sources do not detail the gemological properties of moonstone.
Here's a table summarizing the key properties of pearl and alexandrite, based on the provided sources:
| Property | Pearl | Alexandrite |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Organic (Oysters) | Mineral |
| Composition | Calcium Carbonate (Nacre) | Beryllium Aluminum Silicate |
| Color | White, Cream, Rose, Black, etc. | Bluish-Green (daylight), Red/Purple (incandescent) |
| Luster | High (reflectivity & shine) | Variable |
| Distinguishing Feature | Rough texture when rubbed on tooth | Color Change |
| Rarity | Cultured pearls are common, natural pearls are rare | Very Rare |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Pearls have long been associated with symbolism related to purity, innocence, and faith. In astrology, they are linked to the Moon and the sign of Cancer, embodying intuition, emotional depth, and feminine energy. They are believed to calm the mind, balance emotions, and strengthen relationships. In the Bible, pearls represent great worth, exemplified by the parable of the “pearl of great price,” symbolizing the Kingdom of Heaven.
While the sources do not elaborate on the metaphysical properties of alexandrite, its rarity and unique color-changing ability contribute to its mystique and perceived value. The color change itself is often interpreted as a symbol of balance and adaptability.
Care and Cleaning
The sources offer limited guidance on gemstone care. For pearls, maintaining their luster and surface quality is paramount. They should be protected from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. The sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions for alexandrite, but given its durability, gentle cleaning with mild soap and water is likely appropriate.
Conclusion
June’s birthstones – pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone – represent a diverse and captivating selection of gems. The classic elegance of pearls, the color-changing magic of alexandrite, and the enchanting allure of moonstone offer a unique choice for every individual. The availability of three options provides June-born individuals with the rare gift of personalization, allowing them to select a stone that resonates with their personality and style. Whether seeking a timeless heirloom, a rare treasure, or an affordable alternative, the birthstones of June offer something truly special.