June is unique among months in the birthstone calendar, as it is one of only three months (alongside August and December) to have three officially recognized birthstones: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. This diversity allows June birthdays to enjoy a range of options—each with distinct geological properties, historical significance, and cultural symbolism. While pearl has been the traditional June birthstone for centuries, moonstone and alexandrite were later added to the list, reflecting both evolving fashion and the discovery of new gem materials.
This article explores the scientific, historical, and cultural facets of each June birthstone, drawing from expert sources in gemology, jewelry history, and mineralogy. We will examine how each gemstone was recognized as a birthstone, its geological formation and sources, its physical and optical properties, and the metaphysical and sentimental meanings it holds. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the significance of birthstones, this guide offers a comprehensive overview of the stones that mark the month of June.
History and Lore
The concept of birthstones dates back to ancient times, with early references found in biblical and zodiac traditions. The earliest known references associate gemstones with months or zodiac signs, but the list was not standardized until the 20th century. For June, the earliest documented reference is from Tiffany & Co., which published a pamphlet titled Gregorian Birthstone Poems in 1870, crediting pearl as the June birthstone. This was followed by the National Association of Jewellers (now the Jewellers of America) in 1912, who officially listed pearl as the primary June birthstone and moonstone as the secondary.
The modern three-stone list was formalized in the 1950s, when alexandrite was added as a third June birthstone by the Jewelry Industry Council of America. This decision was influenced by alexandrite’s rare color-changing properties, which made it an appealing and distinct addition to the birthstone repertoire. However, it is worth noting that alexandrite was not as abundant as pearl at the time, and its inclusion may have been driven by marketing and novelty rather than availability.
Pearl: The Original June Birthstone
Pearl’s status as a birthstone is rooted in its organic origin and timeless elegance. Unlike most gemstones, which are formed from minerals, pearls are organic gems produced by mollusks—specifically, bivalve mollusks like oysters and mussels. The formation of a pearl begins when a foreign particle, such as a grain of sand, enters the mollusk's shell. In response, the mollusk coats the irritant with layers of nacre, a substance composed of calcium carbonate and conchiolin, forming the lustrous, smooth surface of a pearl.
Pearls have long been associated with purity, wisdom, and prosperity. In ancient Rome, they were symbols of beauty and divine favor, often worn by empresses and aristocrats. In Chinese mythology, pearls were believed to contain the essence of the moon and were used in rituals to enhance longevity and fortune. Today, pearls remain a symbol of grace and refinement, and their inclusion as a June birthstone reflects their enduring appeal.
Moonstone: The Ethereal Gem of June
Moonstone, a variety of feldspar, is known for its iridescent sheen, called adularescence, which gives it a soft, glowing effect reminiscent of moonlight. This optical phenomenon occurs due to the intergrowth of two feldspar minerals—orthoclase and albite—which scatter light in a way that produces a shimmering halo across the surface of the stone.
Historically, moonstone was regarded with mystical and romantic significance. In ancient India, it was believed to be formed from the rays of the moon, and it was associated with the goddess Chandra. In Victorian England, moonstone was a popular choice for engagement rings, symbolizing love and passion. By the early 20th century, it had been adopted as an alternative June birthstone, offering a more affordable and ethereal option to complement pearl.
Alexandrite: The Modern Addition to June
Alexandrite, the most recent addition to the June birthstone list, is a rare and highly prized gem known for its color-changing ability. Discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in 1834, it was named in honor of Czar Alexander II, who came of age on the day it was first found. The stone exhibits a remarkable shift in color under different lighting conditions: greenish-blue in daylight and red or purplish under incandescent light, a phenomenon caused by pleochroism and selective light absorption.
Alexandrite was initially considered a rare and exotic gem, and its inclusion in the June birthstone list in the 1950s was a reflection of its allure and uniqueness. However, as natural alexandrite became scarce, synthetic alexandrite began to appear in the market, making it more accessible to collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the origin and formation of each June birthstone provides insight into their rarity, value, and availability.
Pearl Formation and Sources
Pearls form in both saltwater and freshwater environments, and the type of pearl is determined by the species of mollusk that produces it. The most well-known pearls are Akoya pearls, formed in saltwater oysters in Japan, and South Sea pearls, produced by large oysters in Australia and Indonesia. Freshwater pearls, on the other hand, are cultivated in mussels in China and are typically more irregular in shape, though they can also be round.
The formation of a pearl is a slow and natural process, often taking several years for a pearl to develop fully. Unlike mined gemstones, pearls do not have a specific geographic "source" in the traditional sense, but rather are cultivated in controlled environments in pearl farms. This makes pearls more sustainable and ethically sourced compared to many other gemstones.
Moonstone Formation and Sources
Moonstone is a feldspar mineral, and its formation is tied to igneous rock processes. It is typically found in granitic rocks, where it crystallizes from molten magma. The iridescent sheen of moonstone is due to the intergrowth of two feldspar minerals, which scatter light and create the adularescent glow.
Major sources of moonstone include Sri Lanka, India, Bhutan, Nepal, Brazil, and Madagascar. Sri Lankan moonstone is particularly prized for its white-to-pink color and strong adularescence. The availability of moonstone makes it a more affordable and accessible option compared to rare gems like alexandrite, and it is often used in jewelry that requires durability and affordability.
Alexandrite Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a rare and complex mineral, and its formation is limited to specific geological conditions. It is a chromium-rich variety of chrysoberyl, and its color-changing property is due to the presence of chromium ions in the crystal lattice. These ions absorb light in the yellow-green region of the spectrum, allowing the stone to appear green in daylight and red under incandescent light.
Natural alexandrite was originally found in the Ural Mountains of Russia, but these deposits have long been exhausted. Today, the main sources of alexandrite are Brazil, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. The Russian alexandrite is considered the most valuable due to the intensity of its color change, but Brazilian alexandrite has also gained recognition for its vibrant colors and clarity.
Gemological Properties
Each of the three June birthstones has distinct gemological properties that influence their hardness, durability, and suitability for jewelry. These properties are crucial for understanding how to care for and select these gems for use in rings, necklaces, and other jewelry.
Pearl: Organic Gem with Variable Hardness
Pearls are organic gems, and unlike most minerals, they do not have a Mohs hardness rating in the traditional sense. However, their surface hardness is relatively low, ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, which means they are susceptible to scratches and abrasions. They are also porous and sensitive to acids, making them unsuitable for daily wear, especially in rings or bracelets.
Pearls are available in a range of colors, including white, cream, pink, silver, and black, depending on the species of mollusk and the environment in which they were formed. Akoya pearls are round and lustrous, while freshwater pearls can be irregular in shape, including baroque and drop shapes.
Moonstone: Feldspar with a Luminous Glow
Moonstone is a feldspar mineral, and its Mohs hardness ranges from 6 to 6.5, making it moderately durable but still prone to scratches and damage if not handled carefully. It is also susceptible to cleavage, a term used to describe the tendency of a gem to break along specific planes. This means that moonstone jewelry should be handled with care, especially when cleaning or storing it.
Moonstone is known for its adularescent glow, a soft, shimmering light that moves across the surface of the stone. This effect is most visible in cabochons, as faceted cuts tend to dampen the adularescence. Moonstone is often cut into cabochons, pendants, and brooches, where its luminous effect can be best appreciated.
Alexandrite: Rare and Color-Changing Chrysoberyl
Alexandrite is a hard and durable gem, with a Mohs hardness of 8.5, making it suitable for a variety of jewelry, including rings and earrings. It is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and its color-changing property is one of its most prized features.
Alexandrite is transparent to translucent, with colors ranging from greenish-blue in daylight to deep red or purple under incandescent light. The most valuable alexandrites display a strong and complete color change, and they are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the June birthstones carries deep cultural and symbolic meanings, which have influenced their use in jewelry, gifts, and personal adornment. These beliefs span across historical, spiritual, and metaphysical traditions, adding to the richness of their legacy.
Pearl: Symbol of Purity and Wisdom
Pearls have long been associated with purity, innocence, and wisdom. In ancient Rome, they were seen as symbols of divine beauty and favor, often worn by noblewomen and empresses. In Chinese culture, pearls were believed to contain the essence of the moon, and they were used in rituals to enhance longevity and fortune.
In Western traditions, pearls have been associated with modesty and elegance, and they were often worn by queens and aristocrats as a mark of sophistication. During the Victorian era, pearls were also seen as a symbol of femininity and virtue, and they were often used in mourning jewelry, as their soft and pale luster was considered appropriate for times of grief.
Moonstone: The Stone of Intuition and Emotional Balance
Moonstone is often associated with emotional balance, intuition, and inner peace. In Indian mythology, it was believed to be formed from moonlight, and it was associated with the goddess Chandra, who governed love and beauty. In Victorian England, moonstone was used in engagement rings to symbolize love and passion, and it was also believed to bring good fortune to travelers.
Today, moonstone is considered a stone of intuition, and it is often used in spiritual practices to enhance psychic abilities and emotional clarity. It is also believed to soothe anxiety and stress, making it a popular choice for those seeking emotional stability and inner harmony.
Alexandrite: The Stone of Transformation and Prosperity
Alexandrite is considered a stone of transformation, prosperity, and protection. Its color-changing property has led to numerous legends and myths, including the belief that it was discovered on the birthday of Czar Alexander II, which is how it got its name. In Russian folklore, alexandrite was believed to bring good luck and fortune, and it was often worn by those seeking success and prosperity.
In modern gemstone traditions, alexandrite is considered a stone of balance and adaptability, and it is believed to enhance creativity, intuition, and emotional stability. It is also said to protect the wearer from negative influences, making it a popular choice for those in high-stress environments or those undergoing personal change.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of June birthstones. Each of these gems has different care requirements due to their distinct chemical and physical properties.
Caring for Pearl
Pearls are sensitive to acids, chemicals, and abrasives, and they should be handled with care. To clean pearls, use a soft cloth or a mild soap solution, and avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals like perfume or hairspray. Store pearls in a soft pouch or box, and avoid stacking them with other jewelry to prevent scratches.
Pearls should be worn regularly, as natural body oils help to keep them lustrous and healthy. However, they should be wiped down after each use to remove any dirt or oils that may dull their surface.
Caring for Moonstone
Moonstone is moderately durable, but it is susceptible to cleavage, so it should be handled with care. Clean moonstone with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water, and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can damage the stone.
When storing moonstone, use a soft pouch or box, and avoid stacking it with other jewelry to prevent scratches and abrasions. Moonstone should also be kept away from direct sunlight for extended periods, as this may affect its color and luster.
Caring for Alexandrite
Alexandrite is very durable, with a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for daily wear. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth or a mild soap solution, and it is safe to use an ultrasonic cleaner. However, avoid exposing it to extreme heat, as this can alter its color and clarity.
When storing alexandrite, use a jewelry box or pouch, and keep it away from other sharp or abrasive stones to prevent scratches. Alexandrite can also be exposed to natural light, and its color-changing property is best appreciated in different lighting conditions.
Conclusion
The June birthstones—pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite—represent a rich tapestry of history, culture, and gemology. Each of these gems has a unique origin, distinct properties, and deep symbolic meaning, making them more than just decorative objects, but meaningful gifts and personal adornments.
From the soft luster of pearls, to the ethereal glow of moonstone, to the rare and captivating color change of alexandrite, these stones offer something for every June birthday. Whether you are choosing a gift for a loved one or celebrating your own birthday, the three June birthstones provide a versatile and beautiful selection that reflects both personal taste and historical significance.
Understanding the geological, historical, and metaphysical aspects of each stone allows for a deeper appreciation of their beauty and value. By learning how to identify, care for, and select these gems, you can make informed choices that will ensure their longevity and continued beauty for years to come.