The Origins and Significance of June’s Three Birthstones: Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite

June is one of the few months on the calendar to boast three official birthstones: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. While the tradition of birthstones dates back centuries, the inclusion of multiple stones for a single month is a relatively modern development, born from the need to adapt to changing availability, cultural significance, and the evolving tastes of gemstone enthusiasts. This article explores the reasons behind June’s three birthstones, their historical and cultural significance, their unique gemological properties, and how they reflect both the evolution of jewelry traditions and the natural rarity of certain gem materials.

June’s three birthstones are not just beautiful gemstones—they represent a convergence of history, science, and symbolism. Each of the stones—pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite—has a distinct origin story, physical makeup, and cultural legacy that contributes to the month’s rich gemstone heritage. Understanding why these three gems are associated with June requires a look at both historical practices and modern adaptations in the jewelry and gemstone industries.

Historical Context of Birthstones

The tradition of assigning gemstones to specific months has its roots in ancient religious and cultural practices. One of the earliest recorded references is the Breastplate of Aaron, a ceremonial garment mentioned in the Hebrew Bible (Exodus 28:15-30). This breastplate contained twelve gemstones, each representing one of the tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones were linked to the zodiac signs and the calendar months, forming the basis for the modern birthstone calendar.

By the 19th and early 20th centuries, the practice of wearing a single gemstone corresponding to one’s birth month had gained popularity in Europe and the United States. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers of America (NAJA) standardized a list of birthstones, assigning one or more stones to each month. For June, the initial list included pearl and moonstone. In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America added alexandrite to the list, making it the modern June birthstone.

This expansion was not arbitrary. As natural resources shifted and consumer demand for gemstones grew, the availability of certain traditional stones diminished. To ensure that June’s birthstone tradition remained meaningful and accessible, jewelers and gemologists added new stones that shared symbolic or aesthetic qualities with the original ones.

Why June Has Three Birthstones

The primary reason June has three birthstones is practical and economic: many of the ancient and traditional gemstones associated with the month became increasingly rare or difficult to source, making it challenging to meet consumer demand. This scarcity led to the inclusion of additional stones that were either more readily available or could serve as symbolic or functional equivalents.

The Role of Scarcity in Birthstone Selection

As early as the 19th century, natural pearls—once abundant in the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean—began to dwindle due to overharvesting and environmental changes. By the early 20th century, natural pearls were so rare that cultured pearls began to replace them in the market. This shift allowed pearls to remain a viable birthstone for June, albeit with a new source of supply.

Moonstone, on the other hand, has a long-standing association with June and has remained relatively abundant due to its widespread natural sources in Sri Lanka, India, and Brazil. Its ethereal beauty and mystical qualities made it a natural complement to pearl, and it was officially added as a second June birthstone in 1912.

Alexandrite, the third and most recent addition, was introduced in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America. This decision was influenced by both availability and cultural appeal. Alexandrite, a rare and color-changing gemstone, offered a modern and striking alternative to the more traditional June birthstones. It also aligned with the growing appreciation for rare and unique gemstones during the mid-20th century.

The Three June Birthstones: A Closer Look

Each of June’s three birthstones—pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite—has its own distinct gemological properties, cultural significance, and aesthetic appeal. Below is a detailed exploration of each.

Pearl: The Organic Gem of June

Pearls are the only gemstone formed by a living organism, making them unique among all birthstones. They are created within mollusks, primarily oysters and mussels, when a foreign particle (such as a grain of sand) enters the mollusk’s tissue. To protect itself, the mollusk coats the particle in layers of nacre, a substance composed of calcium carbonate and conchiolin. Over time, these layers form a smooth, lustrous pearl.

Gemological Properties of Pearl

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Pearls have been symbolically linked to purity, wisdom, and beauty for centuries. In ancient Greece, pearls were associated with Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. In Chinese mythology, pearls were believed to have originated from the brain of a dragon, a symbol of power and divine knowledge. During the Tudor period in England, pearls became a status symbol, with Queen Elizabeth I famously adorning herself in pearl jewelry.

Pearls are also one of the few gemstones that require no polishing or enhancement to display their natural beauty, making them a celebration of organic artistry.

Moonstone: The Mystical June Birthstone

Moonstone is a fascinating gemstone known for its ethereal glow, known as adularescence. This optical phenomenon occurs when light reflects between layers of feldspar minerals within the stone, creating a soft, shimmering effect that resembles the light of the moon—hence its name.

Gemological Properties of Moonstone

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Moonstone has long been associated with the moon and femininity, particularly in Indian and Roman traditions. In ancient Roman culture, it was believed to house the goddess Diana, and wearing moonstone was thought to bring good health, wisdom, and victory. In India, moonstone is considered sacred and is often displayed on yellow cloth, a color also considered spiritually significant.

Moonstone is also believed to bring good fortune, thanks to a spiritual energy that resides within the stone. Rainbow moonstone, which displays multiple colors, is particularly prized for its mystical allure.

Alexandrite: The Modern and Color-Changing June Birthstone

Alexandrite is a rare and captivating gemstone that is a member of the chrysoberyl family. It is best known for its unique ability to change color under different lighting conditions. In daylight, it appears bluish-green, while under incandescent or candlelight, it shifts to a plum purple. This color change is caused by the presence of chromium, which affects how the stone absorbs and reflects light.

Gemological Properties of Alexandrite

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Alexandrite was discovered in 1830 in Russia and was named in honor of Czar Alexander II, who was born on April 29. It was quickly embraced by Russian nobility and became a symbol of good fortune, love, and transformation. Its color-changing property made it especially poetic and romantic, and it soon became a favored gemstone among jewelers and collectors.

In modern times, alexandrite is considered the rarest of June’s three birthstones, and its uniqueness and beauty have made it a popular choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry. Its addition in 1952 was a strategic move by the jewelry industry to keep June’s birthstone tradition relevant and appealing in the 20th century.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Each of June’s three birthstones carries rich symbolic and metaphysical associations, many of which have roots in ancient traditions and spiritual beliefs.

Pearls: Purity, Wisdom, and Harmony

Pearls are often associated with inner beauty, purity, and harmony. They are said to enhance wisdom, patience, and self-confidence, and are believed to soothe emotions and promote calmness. In feng shui and metaphysical practices, pearls are used to attract positive energy and protect against negative influences.

Moonstone: Femininity, Intuition, and Luck

Moonstone is widely regarded as a stone of intuition, feminine energy, and emotional balance. It is believed to enhance intuition, calm the mind, and promote emotional stability. In Indian and Western traditions, moonstone is also thought to bring good luck and protection, especially to pregnant women and travelers.

Alexandrite: Transformation, Courage, and Love

Alexandrite is often associated with transformation, adaptability, and courage. Its color-changing property symbolizes the ability to shift perspectives and embrace change. It is also believed to enhance romantic love and deepen emotional connections, making it a popular choice for love and engagement jewelry.

Care and Maintenance of June Birthstones

Due to their unique properties and varying hardness levels, the three June birthstones require different care routines to maintain their beauty and longevity.

Pearl Care

• Avoid exposure to acidic substances (e.g., perfume, soap, chlorine).
• Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.
• Store in a soft pouch or box to prevent scratches.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.

Pearls are sensitive to acidic and abrasive substances, and prolonged exposure to heat and humidity can cause them to lose their luster and become brittle.

Moonstone Care

• Avoid exposure to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as it can cause fading or damage.
• Clean with lukewarm, soapy water using a soft brush.
• Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can cause internal fractures.
• Store moonstone separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.

Moonstone has perfect cleavage in two directions, making it susceptible to breakage if struck. Gentle handling and proper storage are essential.

Alexandrite Care

• Avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold, as it can cause internal stress or color change.
• Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives, as they can damage the surface.
• Store in a padded container to prevent chipping or scratching.

Alexandrite is quite durable, with a hardness of 8.5, but it is still vulnerable to cleavage in one direction. Careful handling is recommended.

Conclusion

June’s three birthstones—pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite—offer a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and beauty. From the organic elegance of pearls to the mystical glow of moonstone and the color-changing marvel of alexandrite, each stone represents a unique aspect of June’s identity. The inclusion of three stones for a single month reflects both the evolution of gemstone traditions and the practical realities of availability and demand.

As gemstone lovers, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology, understanding the origins, properties, and meanings of these stones enriches our appreciation for the art and science of jewelry. Whether worn for their aesthetic appeal, cultural significance, or metaphysical properties, June’s birthstones continue to captivate and inspire.

Sources

1. The June Birthstones: Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite
2. A Complete Guide to June’s Birthstone
3. Everything You Want to Know About June’s Birthstone - Alexandrite
4. What Is June’s Birthstone?
5. Why Are There Three Birthstones for June?
6. The Story Behind June’s Multiple Birthstones
7. June’s Three Birthstones: A Guide