June is one of the few months in the birthstone tradition to be represented by not one, but three gemstones. These include the elegant and timeless pearl, the ethereal moonstone, and the rare and captivating alexandrite. Each of these stones carries its own unique charm, history, and gemological properties, making June's birthstone selection both diverse and fascinating. While the question of "What color is the June birthstone?" may seem straightforward, the answer is anything but simple—because June’s birthstone can be white, green, red, blue, iridescent, or any number of hues, depending on the gem chosen.
This article delves into the colors, origins, and symbolism of June’s three official birthstones, offering a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and those seeking to understand the significance of these precious stones.
History and Lore
The tradition of birthstones can be traced back to ancient times, with early references found in biblical texts and Mesopotamian cultures. Over time, various cultures and regions added their own interpretations, leading to the modern list of birthstones we recognize today. June’s birthstone tradition, like many others, evolved through centuries of cultural exchange, scientific discovery, and artistic appreciation.
The Pearl: A Timeless Classic
Among the three June birthstones, pearl is the most traditional and well-known. Unlike other gemstones that form from minerals or crystals, pearls are organic gemstones created by living organisms—specifically, mollusks such as oysters and mussels. This unique formation process gives pearls their soft, lustrous appearance and makes them one of the few gemstones not formed from mineral deposits.
Historically, pearls have been associated with purity, wisdom, and elegance. They have been treasured by royalty and nobility for centuries and were considered symbols of status and sophistication. Ancient cultures, including those in China, Persia, and Rome, regarded pearls as sacred and believed they brought good fortune and protection.
The Moonstone: A Play of Light
Moonstone is known for its mystical sheen and is often described as capturing the light of the moon. Its ethereal glow is due to a phenomenon known as adularescence, where light is scattered within the stone’s layers to create a soft, shimmering effect. This effect gives moonstone its name and has inspired numerous legends and beliefs across different cultures.
Moonstone has long been associated with intuition, femininity, and emotional balance. In ancient Rome, it was believed to be formed from moonbeams and was thought to bring calm and serenity to the wearer. In India, moonstone is considered a sacred stone and is often worn by those born under the zodiac sign of Taurus or those who wish to enhance their intuitive abilities.
The Alexandrite: A Modern Marvel
Alexandrite is the youngest of the three June birthstones and the most recently discovered. It was first identified in 1834 in the Ural Mountains of Russia and was named in honor of Czar Alexander II, who was celebrating his 16th birthday at the time. Unlike pearls and moonstone, alexandrite is a mineral and a rare variety of chrysoberyl. Its most distinguishing feature is its ability to change color depending on the type of light it is exposed to—a phenomenon known as pleochroism.
In daylight or fluorescent light, alexandrite appears green or greenish-blue, while under incandescent light, it takes on a deep red or purplish hue. This unique color-changing property has made alexandrite a highly sought-after gemstone, often associated with transformation, adaptability, and balance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins and sources of each June birthstone provides insight into their rarity and value.
Pearl Formation and Sources
Pearls are formed within the soft tissue of mollusks, particularly bivalve mollusks like oysters. When an irritant, such as a grain of sand, enters the mollusk’s shell, the creature secretes layers of nacre around the irritant to protect itself. Over time, these layers build up to form a pearl. The nacre gives pearls their characteristic luster and smooth texture.
Natural pearls are extremely rare and were historically considered true treasures. However, with the advent of pearl culturing techniques in the early 20th century, cultured pearls became widely available, making them more accessible to the general public. The most famous sources of pearls include Japan (especially Akoya pearls), the Persian Gulf (freshwater and saltwater pearls), and the South Sea (for large, high-quality pearls).
Moonstone Formation and Sources
Moonstone is a type of feldspar mineral and is known for its iridescent, milky sheen. It forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks and is typically found in areas with a history of volcanic activity. The adularescence in moonstone is caused by the intergrowth of two different types of feldspar minerals, which scatter light in a way that gives the stone its signature glow.
The primary sources of moonstone include India, Sri Lanka, and the United States. Indian moonstone, particularly from the state of Tamil Nadu, is among the most prized for its strong adularescence and high quality. Sri Lankan moonstone is also highly regarded and is often referred to as "Sri Lankan moonstone" or "moonstone from Ceylon."
Alexandrite Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a rare and valuable gemstone due to its unique color-changing properties. It is a form of chrysoberyl and contains trace amounts of chromium and vanadium, which are responsible for its color change. The most valuable alexandrite exhibits a vivid green in daylight and a deep red or purplish hue under incandescent light.
The first alexandrite was discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in 1834, and it was there that the gemstone made its debut in the world of gemology. However, Russian alexandrite is now extremely rare, and most of today’s alexandrite comes from Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe. Brazilian alexandrite, in particular, is known for its vibrant color change and is highly sought after in the gemstone market.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of each June birthstone define their appearance, durability, and care requirements.
Pearl Properties
Pearls are among the softer gemstones, with a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This low hardness makes them susceptible to scratches and damage from harsh chemicals. Pearls are also sensitive to heat and acid, so they must be handled with care.
The most common shape for pearls is round, but they can also be irregular, teardrop, or oval. Their color can range from white and cream to pink, silver, and even black, depending on the type of mollusk and the environment in which the pearl was formed. The luster of a pearl is a key factor in its value, with higher luster indicating greater quality.
Moonstone Properties
Moonstone has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than pearls but still relatively soft. It is also sensitive to heat and can lose its luster if exposed to high temperatures. Moonstone is typically cut into cabochons to showcase its adularescence, and the most valuable stones display a strong, even glow.
The color of moonstone can vary from white and beige to blue, pink, and even green. The most prized moonstone is the blue moonstone, which displays a strong, shimmering blue sheen. Moonstone is also known for its milky, translucent appearance and is often used in jewelry such as pendants, earrings, and rings.
Alexandrite Properties
Alexandrite is one of the hardest of the June birthstones, with a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more durable than both pearls and moonstone, and it is suitable for use in a wide range of jewelry, including rings, pendants, and earrings.
Alexandrite is known for its remarkable color change, which is caused by the way light is absorbed and reflected within the stone. In daylight or fluorescent light, it appears green or greenish-blue, while under incandescent light, it takes on a deep red or purplish hue. This color-changing property makes alexandrite a highly desirable and valuable gemstone.
Alexandrite is typically cut into brilliant or mixed cuts to enhance its color change and sparkle. The most valuable alexandrite is transparent with a strong color change and minimal inclusions.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each June birthstone carries its own unique symbolism and has been associated with various metaphysical beliefs throughout history.
Pearl Symbolism
Pearls have long been associated with purity, wisdom, and innocence. In many cultures, they are considered symbols of femininity and grace. Pearls are also believed to bring calm and serenity to the wearer and are often used in meditation and healing practices.
In ancient China, pearls were considered symbols of immortality and were believed to have healing properties. In the West, pearls have been associated with loyalty and integrity and have been worn by royalty and nobility for centuries. The soft, lustrous appearance of pearls also makes them a popular choice for wedding jewelry, symbolizing the purity and enduring love of the couple.
Moonstone Symbolism
Moonstone is often associated with intuition, emotional balance, and feminine energy. It is considered a stone of new beginnings and is believed to help the wearer navigate change and uncertainty. In many cultures, moonstone is also associated with protection, particularly for travelers and women during childbirth.
The ethereal glow of moonstone has also made it a popular stone in spiritual and mystical practices. It is believed to enhance psychic abilities and to help the wearer connect with their inner wisdom. Moonstone is also associated with the moon and is often used in rituals and ceremonies related to the lunar cycle.
Alexandrite Symbolism
Alexandrite is a relatively modern gemstone and has not had as long a history of symbolic associations as pearls and moonstone. However, it is often linked to transformation, adaptability, and balance. The color-changing property of alexandrite is seen as a metaphor for change and the ability to thrive in different circumstances.
Alexandrite is also believed to bring good luck and to enhance the wearer’s ability to make wise decisions. It is often worn as a talisman to help the wearer navigate life’s challenges and to promote harmony and balance.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of June birthstone jewelry. Each stone requires specific handling due to its unique properties.
Caring for Pearls
Pearls are sensitive to heat, chemicals, and abrasion, so they require gentle care. They should be stored separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches. After wearing, pearls should be wiped with a soft, damp cloth to remove any oils or dirt. They should not be exposed to harsh chemicals, such as perfume or hairspray, and should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Pearls should be cleaned by a professional jeweler using a soft cloth and mild soapy water. It is important to avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the nacre of the pearl.
Caring for Moonstone
Moonstone is more durable than pearls but is still sensitive to heat and should be handled with care. It should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from losing its luster. Moonstone should not be exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods.
To clean moonstone, a soft cloth and mild soapy water can be used. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for moonstone, but it is advisable to consult with a professional jeweler before using one.
Caring for Alexandrite
Alexandrite is one of the hardest June birthstones and is more durable than pearls and moonstone. However, it should still be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage. Alexandrite should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
To clean alexandrite, a soft cloth and mild soapy water can be used. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for alexandrite, but it is important to avoid exposing it to high heat or harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
June’s birthstone selection is a testament to the diversity and beauty of the natural world. With pearls, moonstone, and alexandrite, June offers a range of colors, properties, and symbolism that appeal to a wide variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of a pearl, the ethereal glow of a moonstone, or the rare and captivating color change of an alexandrite, there is a June birthstone that is sure to resonate with you.
Understanding the history, geological properties, and symbolism of these gemstones allows for a deeper appreciation of their beauty and significance. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply someone with a June birthday, the June birthstones offer a rich and fascinating world of color, light, and meaning.