Birthstones have long captivated the imagination of cultures across the world. These precious gems, tied to specific months of the year, carry a wealth of historical, cultural, and symbolic significance. June and September, in particular, are months that have seen both traditional and modern interpretations of birthstones, with each stone telling a unique story. This article delves into the birthstones of June—pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone—and September’s sapphire. By exploring their geological origins, cultural symbolism, and historical evolution, we uncover the enduring allure of these gemstones.
Introduction
The tradition of birthstones traces its roots back to ancient times, with early references found in religious and cultural texts. Over centuries, these associations have evolved, influenced by scientific discoveries, market trends, and cultural shifts. For June, the birthstone tradition has expanded to include three distinct gemstones—pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone—each with its own unique properties and meanings. September, by contrast, has retained its singular birthstone, sapphire, though it is recognized in a range of colors. This article will explore the history, symbolism, and gemological properties of these stones, while also examining the evolution of the birthstone concept in modern times.
History and Lore
June Birthstones
Pearl
Pearls have been cherished for thousands of years. Their lustrous beauty and organic origin have made them symbols of purity, wisdom, and elegance. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed that pearls were the tears of the gods or the embodiment of moonlight. In the Middle Ages, pearls were often associated with chastity and were worn by royalty and clergy to signify virtue.
The tradition of pearls as June’s birthstone has deep roots. In the 16th century, Polish and German gemologists began assigning gemstones to the months of the year, and pearls were assigned to June. By the 19th century, pearls were widely recognized as the June birthstone, particularly in European and American jewelry traditions.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite, a relative newcomer to the list of birthstones, was discovered in the early 19th century in the Ural Mountains of Russia. It was named in honor of Tsar Alexander II, who was born on the day the stone was discovered—April 29, 1830. Alexandrite is unique for its color-changing properties, appearing green in daylight and red under incandescent light. This characteristic made it highly coveted and symbolic of transformation and adaptability.
Alexandrite was officially recognized as a June birthstone in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America. Its addition reflected the growing appreciation for rare and unusual gemstones in the mid-20th century.
Moonstone
Moonstone, with its ethereal glow, has been admired for centuries in various cultures. It is a type of feldspar that exhibits a phenomenon known as adularescence—a soft, billowy light that moves across the surface of the stone. Ancient Romans believed that moonstone was formed from moonbeams and that it brought good fortune. In India, moonstone is considered sacred and is often used in traditional jewelry and talismans.
Moonstone was added to the list of June birthstones in 1952 alongside alexandrite, further enriching the month’s gemstone offerings. It is associated with intuition, emotional balance, and the feminine energy of the moon.
September Birthstone
Sapphire
Sapphire, the birthstone for September, is one of the most revered gemstones in history. While it is most commonly known for its deep blue color, sapphires can be found in a wide range of hues, including yellow, green, pink, and even colorless. The word “sapphire” is derived from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning “blue.”
Historically, sapphires have been symbols of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed that sapphires could protect their wearers from harm and envy. In the Middle Ages, sapphires were associated with the heavens and were often worn by clergy to symbolize divine favor. Sapphires were also believed to have healing properties, particularly for ailments of the eyes and plague.
Sapphires have been treasured by royalty throughout history. One of the most famous sapphires is the Star of India, a 563-carat gemstone that is part of the Smithsonian Institution’s collection. Sapphires have also been used in royal coronation regalia and are often featured in engagement rings, symbolizing enduring love and fidelity.
Geological Formation and Sources
June Birthstones
Pearl
Pearls are organic gemstones formed within the soft tissue of living shelled mollusks. They are composed primarily of calcium carbonate in the form of the mineral aragonite, along with conchiolin, a protein-like substance that binds the layers of aragonite together. The formation of a pearl begins when a foreign particle, such as a grain of sand or a parasite, enters the mollusk’s shell. To protect itself, the mollusk secretes layers of nacre around the irritant, gradually forming a smooth, lustrous pearl.
Cultured pearls, which are now the most commonly available type, are created through a process in which a bead or piece of tissue is inserted into the mollusk to encourage pearl formation. The most well-known sources of natural and cultured pearls include the Persian Gulf, the South Sea Islands of Australia, and the waters of Japan and China. Freshwater pearls are also produced in rivers and lakes, particularly in China and the United States.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a rare and valuable gemstone that belongs to the chrysoberyl family. Its color-changing property is due to the presence of trace amounts of chromium in the crystal structure. In daylight, the stone appears green because it absorbs certain wavelengths of light, while under incandescent light, it appears red due to the shift in the light source.
Alexandrite is primarily found in metamorphic rocks and is most commonly associated with the Ural Mountains of Russia, where it was first discovered. Other notable sources include Brazil, India, and Sri Lanka. Due to its rarity, alexandrite is often more valuable than other colored gemstones of similar size and quality.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a type of feldspar that exhibits a unique optical phenomenon known as adularescence. This effect is caused by the intergrowth of two different feldspar minerals—orthoclase and albite—within the stone. Light is scattered as it passes through the layers, creating the illusion of a floating, glowing light.
Moonstone is found in a variety of locations around the world, including India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, and the United States. Indian moonstone is particularly prized for its high-quality adularescence and is often used in jewelry. The stone is relatively soft, with a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it requires careful handling and appropriate settings to prevent damage.
September Birthstone
Sapphire
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The blue color of sapphire is typically caused by trace amounts of iron and titanium within the crystal structure. However, sapphires can occur in any color except red, which is reserved for rubies. The hardness of sapphire is 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest and most durable gemstones, second only to diamond.
Sapphires are formed under high pressure and temperature conditions deep within the Earth’s crust. They are often found in metamorphic rocks, such as gneiss and schist, or in igneous rocks like basalt. The most famous sources of sapphires include Burma (Myanmar), Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Kashmir. Kashmir sapphires, in particular, are highly prized for their intense blue color and are considered among the finest in the world.
Sapphires are also found in Australia, Madagascar, and the United States, among other countries. The availability of sapphires has increased in recent years due to the discovery of new deposits and the use of heat treatment to enhance color and clarity.
Gemological Properties
June Birthstones
Pearl
Pearls are unique among gemstones because they are organic rather than mineral in origin. Their composition and structure give them a distinct appearance and set of properties. Pearls have a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, which makes them relatively soft and susceptible to scratches and chemical damage. As a result, pearls require special care to maintain their luster and longevity.
The value of a pearl is determined by several factors, including its size, shape, color, luster, and surface quality. Round pearls are the most valuable, followed by near-round and off-round shapes. Luster is a key indicator of quality, with the best pearls exhibiting a deep, mirror-like sheen. The most prized pearls are those with a white or cream color and a smooth, blemish-free surface.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a rare and valuable gemstone with a hardness of 8.5 to 9 on the Mohs scale, making it quite durable. It is known for its unique color-changing property, which is due to the presence of chromium in the crystal structure. In daylight, alexandrite appears green, while under incandescent light, it appears red. This effect is known as the “alexandrite effect” and is one of the most distinctive features of the stone.
The color of alexandrite can vary depending on the source. Russian alexandrite tends to have a more intense green and red color, while Brazilian alexandrite is often less vivid. The value of alexandrite is influenced by its size, color change, and clarity. The most valuable alexandrites are those that display a strong and distinct color change and have a high degree of transparency.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a type of feldspar with a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and prone to scratches and damage. It is known for its unique optical phenomenon called adularescence, which creates the illusion of a floating, glowing light across the surface of the stone. This effect is caused by the intergrowth of two different feldspar minerals—orthoclase and albite—within the crystal.
The value of moonstone is determined by the quality of its adularescence, color, and clarity. The most prized moonstones are those with a strong, visible adularescence and a soft, white or blue sheen. Moonstones with a pink or golden color are also highly valued. The presence of inclusions or blemishes can affect the stone’s value, so clean, well-formed moonstones are considered the most desirable.
September Birthstone
Sapphire
Sapphire is one of the hardest and most durable gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. It is a variety of corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The blue color of sapphire is typically caused by trace amounts of iron and titanium, but sapphires can occur in any color except red, which is reserved for rubies.
The value of sapphire is determined by several factors, including color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The most valuable sapphires are those with a deep, intense blue color known as "cornflower blue." These sapphires are often found in Burma (Myanmar) and are considered among the finest in the world. Sapphires with a high degree of clarity and a well-proportioned cut also command high prices.
Sapphires are often treated to enhance their color and clarity. Heat treatment is a common and accepted method used to improve the stone’s appearance, and it can significantly increase its value. However, untreated sapphires are considered more valuable and rare.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
June Birthstones
Pearl
Pearls have long been associated with purity, innocence, and wisdom. In ancient times, they were believed to bring good fortune and were often used as talismans to protect against evil. In medieval Europe, pearls were associated with chastity and were worn by royalty and clergy to symbolize virtue and purity.
In modern times, pearls are often given as gifts to celebrate milestones such as anniversaries, birthdays, and graduations. They are also associated with the 30th wedding anniversary, symbolizing the enduring beauty of a long and happy marriage. Pearls are considered to be stones of intuition and emotional balance, and they are believed to enhance wisdom and spiritual awareness.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a stone of transformation, adaptability, and balance. It is believed to enhance intuition and emotional stability, helping individuals navigate through periods of change. Alexandrite is also associated with personal growth and self-discovery, making it a popular choice for those undergoing significant life transitions.
In metaphysical traditions, alexandrite is said to have a powerful effect on the heart and solar plexus chakras. It is believed to help individuals release negative emotions and gain confidence in their personal and professional lives. Alexandrite is also thought to promote harmony and balance in relationships, making it a popular stone for couples and families.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a stone of feminine energy and intuition. It is often associated with the moon and is believed to enhance emotional balance and clarity. Moonstone is considered a powerful stone for those who are going through emotional changes or seeking to connect with their inner selves.
In metaphysical traditions, moonstone is believed to help individuals navigate through difficult emotional situations and promote a sense of calm and peace. It is also associated with the third eye and crown chakras, enhancing spiritual awareness and psychic abilities. Moonstone is often used in meditation and is believed to help individuals connect with their higher selves and the divine.
September Birthstone
Sapphire
Sapphire is a stone of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It has long been associated with the heavens and is believed to bring divine favor and protection to its wearer. Sapphires were often worn by royalty and clergy to symbolize divine power and wisdom.
In modern times, sapphires are often used in engagement rings to symbolize enduring love and fidelity. They are also associated with the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing the strength and beauty of a long and lasting relationship. Sapphires are considered stones of truth and integrity, and they are believed to enhance clarity of thought and decision-making.
In metaphysical traditions, sapphire is believed to have a calming and centering effect on the mind and body. It is associated with the throat and third eye chakras, enhancing communication and spiritual insight. Sapphires are also believed to help individuals overcome fear and anxiety, promoting a sense of peace and confidence.
Care and Cleaning
June Birthstones
Pearl
Pearls require special care due to their soft and porous nature. They are sensitive to chemicals, heat, and abrasion, which can cause them to lose their luster and become damaged. To clean pearls, gently wipe them with a soft, damp cloth after wearing. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the surface of the pearls.
When storing pearls, keep them separate from other gemstones to prevent scratching. It is also important to allow pearls to dry completely before storing them in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing pearls to direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause them to lose their luster and become brittle.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a relatively durable gemstone, but it should still be handled with care. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the stone, especially if it has inclusions or fractures.
When storing alexandrite, keep it in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause the stone to crack or become brittle. Alexandrite should also be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a relatively soft gemstone that requires gentle handling and cleaning. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the stone.
When storing moonstone, keep it in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches. Moonstone should also be kept away from harsh chemicals, abrasives, and direct sunlight, as these can cause the stone to lose its luster and become damaged. It is also important to allow moonstone to dry completely before storing it in a cool, dry place.
September Birthstone
Sapphire
Sapphire is one of the hardest and most durable gemstones, making it relatively easy to care for. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. For more thorough cleaning, sapphires can be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaner, but it is important to ensure that the stone is free of inclusions or fractures that could be damaged by these methods.
When storing sapphires, keep them in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches. Sapphires can be exposed to direct sunlight and heat without significant risk of damage, but it is still advisable to store them in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid exposing sapphires to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can scratch the surface of the stone.
Conclusion
June and September birthstones represent a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and beauty. From the organic elegance of pearls to the transformative power of alexandrite, and the celestial wisdom of sapphires, these gemstones have captivated cultures for centuries. Their geological origins, cultural significance, and metaphysical properties continue to make them popular choices for jewelry and personal adornment.
The evolution of the birthstone tradition, from ancient times to the modern era, reflects the changing values and tastes of society. While some gemstones have remained consistent, others have been added to reflect new discoveries and trends. This ongoing evolution ensures that birthstones remain relevant and meaningful to contemporary gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers.
Whether worn as a symbol of personal identity, a gift of love and celebration, or a tool for spiritual growth, June and September birthstones continue to inspire and enchant. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to connect us to the past, the present, and the future, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity through the timeless beauty of gemstones.