June boasts a unique distinction among the calendar months – it is represented by not one, but three birthstones: Alexandrite, Pearl, and Moonstone. Each gem carries its own rich history, captivating beauty, and distinct symbolism, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in the sixth month of the year. The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months dates back centuries, evolving from ancient religious practices to modern astrological beliefs. This article will explore the origins, properties, and significance of these three June birthstones, drawing upon historical accounts and gemological insights.
History and Lore
The concept of linking gemstones to specific months has deep roots in historical and religious traditions. The earliest known connection can be traced to the Book of Exodus in the Bible, where twelve precious stones were set in the Breastplate of Aaron, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Scholar Flavius Josephus, in the 1st century A.D., and later St. Jerome in the 5th century A.D., proposed a correlation between these gems, the months of the year, and the zodiac signs. This idea suggested that the gemstones possessed miraculous powers aligned with astrological influences, fostering a tradition of wearing all twelve stones for protection and good fortune.
The Roman calendar and later the Julian calendar, established in 46 BC, further solidified the association between months and gemstones. However, the transition to the Gregorian calendar in the late 16th century, necessitated by inaccuracies in the Julian calendar related to leap years, disrupted the original alignment. Despite these shifts, the tradition persisted, with various cultures developing their own unique lists of birthstones. Tibetan, Siamese (Thai), and Chinese cultures all maintained distinct gemstone associations with months and days of the week, often linked to metaphysical properties and good fortune.
For June, traditional lists include Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite, while historical variations suggest Cat’s Eye, Turquoise, or Agate. The Hindu tradition specifically designates Pearl as the birthstone for June. The modern designation of these three stones reflects a blend of historical precedent and contemporary gemological appreciation.
Alexandrite: The Color-Changing Gem
Alexandrite, the most recent addition to the June birthstone family, is a remarkable variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Its most defining characteristic is its ability to change color depending on the light source. Under normal circumstances, it appears as a transparent yellow-green to greenish-blue. However, when exposed to polarized light, such as sunlight, it exhibits a dramatic color shift, displaying shades of red, dark purple, or orange. This phenomenon, known as pleochroism, makes Alexandrite exceptionally prized among gem enthusiasts.
The gem was first discovered in 1830 in Russia’s Ural Mountains and was named after the young Alexander II, heir apparent to the throne at the time. Its red and green hues mirrored the national military colors of imperial Russia, quickly capturing the country’s attention. Alexandrite displaying a vivid green to bluish-green in daylight or fluorescent light and a deep red to purplish hue in incandescent light is considered the most valuable.
A rare phenomenon called chatoyancy, or the cat’s-eye effect, can also occur in Alexandrite when certain long, thin inclusions are aligned parallel to each other. This adds another layer of fascination to this already captivating gemstone.
Pearl: A Timeless Classic
Pearl, a gemstone admired for millennia, holds a prominent place in the history of jewelry and adornment. Its name originates from the Latin word ‘Perna,’ referring to the leg-of-mutton shape of an open mollusk shell. Evidence suggests that pearls were treasured even before becoming officially recognized as a June birthstone, with ancient Greeks and Romans fashioning them into vessels for beverages, believing they could prevent intoxication.
Throughout history, pearls have been associated with purity, innocence, and wisdom. They have been found in various cultures and have been used in jewelry and ornamentation for centuries.
Moonstone: The Stone of Lunar Glow
Moonstone, renowned for its adularescence – a shimmering, billowy light that appears to emanate from within the gem – is another cherished June birthstone. The finest moonstones exhibit a blue sheen against a colorless background. Historically, Moonstone has been linked to lunar deities in both Roman and Greek mythology, while Hindu mythology attributes its creation to solidified moonbeams.
Moonstone is often associated with love, passion, and fertility, believed to bring good luck to its wearer. It experienced a resurgence in popularity during the Art Nouveau era (1890s–1910s), with designers like René Lalique and Louis Comfort Tiffany incorporating it into their exquisite jewelry. It also gained prominence during the 1960s “flower child” movement and with New Age designers in the 1990s.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite forms in pegmatites, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks. Major deposits were initially found in Russia’s Ural Mountains, but significant sources have since been discovered in Tanzania, Sri Lanka, and Brazil.
Pearls are formed within the soft tissue of a living shelled mollusk, either through natural processes or through human intervention (cultured pearls).
Moonstone, a member of the feldspar mineral group, is found in a variety of locations, including the United States (New Mexico, North Carolina, and Virginia), India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Tanzania. India and Sri Lanka are particularly important sources of high-quality moonstone.
Gemological Properties
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of the three June birthstones:
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Hardness (Mohs) | Color Change/Sheen | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandrite | BeAl₂O₄ | 7.19 | Yes (Emerald to Ruby) | Transparent |
| Pearl | CaCO₃ | 2.5 - 4.5 | Iridescent Sheen | Translucent |
| Moonstone | (Na,K)AlSi₃O₈ | 6 - 6.5 | Adularescence (Blue) | Transparent to Translucent |
Alexandrite’s hardness of 7.19 on the Mohs scale makes it a relatively durable gemstone, suitable for everyday wear. Moonstone, with a hardness of 6-6.5, is more susceptible to scratches and damage. Pearl, being the softest of the three with a hardness of 2.5-4.5, requires careful handling and protection.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their varying hardness and toughness, each June birthstone requires specific care. Moonstone and Pearl, being relatively soft, should not be exposed to ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as high heat can cause cracking. The recommended cleaning method for both is warm, soapy water with a soft brush. Alexandrite, being more durable, can withstand gentle cleaning with mild soap and water, but should still be handled with care to avoid scratches.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these gemstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Alexandrite, with its dynamic color change, is often seen as a symbol of balance, transformation, and good fortune. Pearl represents purity, innocence, and wisdom, while Moonstone is associated with love, passion, fertility, and good luck. In Tibetan culture, gemstones were believed to hold metaphysical powers and were used as protective talismans and bearers of good fortune.
Conclusion
The three June birthstones – Alexandrite, Pearl, and Moonstone – represent a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the color-changing marvel of Alexandrite to the timeless elegance of Pearl and the ethereal glow of Moonstone, each gem offers a unique and meaningful connection to the month of June. Their enduring appeal lies not only in their aesthetic qualities but also in the rich cultural heritage and enduring beliefs associated with them.