June is a uniquely blessed month, boasting not one, but three recognized birthstones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. These gems, each with its own distinct history, geological origins, and aesthetic qualities, offer a diverse range of options for those born in the sixth month of the year. From the timeless elegance of the pearl to the color-changing marvel of the alexandrite and the ethereal glow of the moonstone, June’s birthstones are steeped in lore and continue to captivate gem enthusiasts worldwide. This article will delve into the fascinating world of these three gems, exploring their origins, properties, symbolism, and care.
A History of Significance
Throughout history, each of these June birthstones has held special meaning for different cultures. Pearls, perhaps the most widely recognized, have been treasured for millennia. Ancient civilizations in the Middle East believed pearls were solidified teardrops from heaven, while the Chinese associated them with dragons and their brains. Even Christopher Columbus attributed their formation to dewdrops captured by mollusks. Beyond their origins, pearls have long symbolized purity, humility, and innocence, making them traditional gifts for weddings. Ancient texts, such as the Sanskrit Atharvaveda, attributed pearls with bestowing long life and prosperity, and in later centuries, they were even believed to alleviate physical and emotional ailments.
Moonstone also carries a rich historical and mythological background. Linked to both Roman and Greek lunar deities, it was believed to be solidified moonbeams by those in Hindu mythology. The gem is often associated with love, passion, and fertility, and was considered a stone of good fortune. Moonstone experienced periods of heightened popularity, notably during the Art Nouveau movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where designers like René Lalique and Louis Comfort Tiffany prominently featured it in their jewelry. It also saw a resurgence during the 1960s and 1990s with the rise of the “flower child” movement and New Age design.
Alexandrite, the newest of the three to gain recognition as a birthstone, has a more recent but equally compelling history. Discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 19th century, it quickly became a favorite among royalty due to its remarkable color-changing ability. The original Ural Mountain deposits are now depleted, adding to the gem’s rarity and value.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of these birthstones occurs through vastly different geological processes. Pearls are unique in that they are organic gemstones, formed within the soft tissue of a living shelled mollusk. They develop as a defense mechanism against irritants, with layers of nacre—a substance also known as mother-of-pearl—building up over time to create the lustrous gem. Pearls are found in oceans, lakes, and rivers worldwide, with pearl farms often located in pristine, unpolluted waters.
Moonstone, on the other hand, is a member of the feldspar mineral group. Its characteristic adularescence—the shimmering, billowy light effect—is caused by the scattering of light between microscopic layers within the stone. Moonstone is found in various locations, including the United States (New Mexico, North Carolina, and Virginia), India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Tanzania.
Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Its remarkable color change—appearing green in daylight and red in incandescent light—is due to its ability to absorb different wavelengths of light under different lighting conditions. Historically, the finest alexandrite came from the Ural Mountains of Russia, but today, most alexandrite is sourced from Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa. However, these newer deposits often yield stones with less pronounced color change and clarity compared to the 19th-century Russian alexandrites.
Gemological Properties
Each of these June birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties. Pearls, being organic, are rated only 2.5 to 3.0 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them relatively soft and susceptible to damage. They require careful handling and storage.
Moonstone registers between 6 and 6.5 on the Mohs scale, indicating moderate hardness. It has poor toughness and can crack if exposed to high heat. Its defining characteristic is adularescence, the shimmering effect that sets it apart.
Alexandrite is the most durable of the three, with a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. It also boasts excellent toughness and no cleavage, making it suitable for everyday wear, even in rings. The gem’s most notable property is its color change, a phenomenon highly prized by collectors and gemologists. Chatoyancy, or the cat’s-eye effect, can also be observed in certain alexandrites with aligned inclusions.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Hardness (Mohs) | Toughness | Key Property |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pearl | 2.5 - 3.0 | Low | Luster, organic origin |
| Moonstone | 6 - 6.5 | Poor | Adularescence |
| Alexandrite | 8.5 | Excellent | Color Change |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these birthstones are imbued with symbolic meaning. Pearls, as mentioned earlier, represent purity, innocence, and simplicity. They were traditionally given as wedding gifts to symbolize a happy and harmonious marriage.
Moonstone is associated with love, passion, and fertility. It was believed to bring good luck and was often used in jewelry to enhance intuition and emotional balance.
Alexandrite, with its dynamic color change, is often seen as a symbol of good fortune and balance. It is believed to promote self-awareness and encourage adaptability.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these June birthstones. Pearls, due to their softness, require gentle handling. They should be stored separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching and never placed in plastic bags, as plastic can damage their surface. Perfume, hairspray, and cosmetics should be applied before wearing pearl jewelry. Cleaning should be done with a soft, damp cloth after each wear.
Moonstone should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided, as they can damage the stone.
Alexandrite is relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water, and ultrasonic or steam cleaners are generally safe. However, it’s always best to exercise caution when cleaning any gemstone.
Conclusion
The June birthstones—pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone—offer a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. Each gem possesses unique geological origins and gemological properties, making them highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike. Whether you are drawn to the classic elegance of the pearl, the mesmerizing color change of the alexandrite, or the ethereal glow of the moonstone, these June birthstones are sure to bring joy and meaning to those who wear them.