June is uniquely blessed with not one, but three recognized birthstones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. This selection offers a diverse range of colors, origins, and price points, making it a particularly fortunate month for those seeking a gemstone with personal significance. From ancient lore surrounding their creation to modern appreciation for their beauty, these three gems hold a special place in both history and contemporary jewelry.
A History of Significance
The history of June’s birthstones is varied and fascinating. Pearls boast the longest documented history, having been revered and adorned for millennia. As early as 300 BCE, divers in the Red Sea sought natural pearls, and the gems were prized possessions in ancient Greece, where they were believed to be solidified tears of the gods. Chinese folklore attributed pearls to dragons, envisioning them as originating from the creatures’ brains. Even Christopher Columbus imagined mollusks forming pearls from dewdrops. The oldest known piece of pearl jewelry was discovered in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess dating back to 520 BC, demonstrating their enduring appeal. Pearls have long been associated with purity, humility, and innocence, traditionally gifted to brides celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary.
Alexandrite, in contrast, is a relatively recent addition to the birthstone list. Its discovery occurred in Russia during the 19th century, and it was named in honor of the future Czar Alexander II. Moonstone also has a rich history, with Pliny the Elder coining its name to reflect the gemstone’s shimmering appearance and its resemblance to the phases of the moon. In Roman and Greek mythology, moonstone was linked to lunar deities, while Hindu traditions believed it to be formed from solidified moonbeams.
Geological Formation and Sources
Pearls are unique among gemstones as they are organic, created within living creatures. They originate from oceans, lakes, and rivers around the world, formed within mollusks as a defense mechanism against irritants. The process involves the secretion of nacre, a lustrous substance that builds up layers around the irritant, ultimately forming the pearl.
Alexandrite, a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, is formed under specific geological conditions. Its color-changing property is a result of the presence of chromium within the crystal structure. While originally discovered in Russia, alexandrite is now also found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa, though high-quality specimens remain rare.
Moonstone, a member of the feldspar mineral group, is formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Significant sources include Sri Lanka, India, and Madagascar. The characteristic adularescence – the shimmering effect – is created by the scattering of light between microscopic layers within the stone.
Gemological Properties
Each of June’s birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties.
Pearl: Unlike traditional gemstones rated on the Mohs scale, pearls are assessed based on luster, nacre quality, shape, size, and color. Their composition is calcium carbonate in crystalline form. They typically range in color from white and cream to pink, silver, gold, green, blue, and black.
Alexandrite: Alexandrite is known for its remarkable pleochroism, the ability to display different colors depending on the angle of light. It is a transparent yellow-green to greenish-blue under normal light but transforms into a range of colors – red, dark purple, or orange – under polarized light. This color change is highly prized, with vivid green to bluish-green in daylight and deep red to purplish hues under incandescent light being the most valuable. Alexandrite has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale and is a form of chrysoberyl.
Moonstone: Moonstone exhibits a pearl-like luster due to the way light penetrates and reflects within its layered structure. It is chemically a form of feldspar. Colors vary, including milky white, gray, pink, orange, and even blue. The most valued moonstones display a blue sheen against a white background. Moonstone’s hardness is 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale.
The following table summarizes key properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Key Property |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pearl | Calcium Carbonate | N/A | Luster, Nacre Quality |
| Alexandrite | Chrysoberyl (with Cr) | 8.5 | Color Change |
| Moonstone | Feldspar | 6-6.5 | Adularescence |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these gemstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Pearls have traditionally represented purity, innocence, and humility, making them ideal gifts for weddings and celebrations of marital fidelity.
Alexandrite, due to its color-changing nature, has been likened to the complexities of love, representing adaptability and the ability to show different facets of oneself. Some modern interpretations associate it with heightened intuition and pleasure.
Moonstone has long been linked to lunar deities and feminine energy. It is believed to represent love, passion, and fertility, and has been associated with dreams and intuition. Some cultures used it as a remedy for insomnia and sleepwalking, and it was known as “The Traveller’s Stone,” offering protection during nighttime journeys.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of June’s birthstones. Pearls are relatively soft and can be damaged by harsh chemicals, abrasives, and even prolonged exposure to sunlight. They should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
Alexandrite, with its higher hardness, is more durable but should still be protected from scratches and harsh impacts. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Moonstone is also relatively delicate and should be protected from scratches and extreme temperatures. Cleaning can be done with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners.
Conclusion
June’s birthstones – pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone – offer a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the ancient origins of pearls to the relatively recent discovery of alexandrite and the mystical allure of moonstone, these gems continue to enchant and inspire. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, their historical significance, or their perceived metaphysical properties, these three treasures provide a wealth of options for those born in the sixth month of the year.