June is one of only three months recognized with three official birthstones, a unique distinction that highlights the diversity and richness of gemstones associated with this month. The three June birthstones are pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. Each carries a distinct set of properties, historical significance, and cultural meanings that have shaped their roles in jewelry and personal symbolism over the centuries. This article explores each of these gemstones in depth, drawing from historical records, gemological properties, and the myths and beliefs that have surrounded them.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning gemstones to each month is believed to have originated in ancient texts, including the Bible and the writings of the ancient Greeks and Romans. By the 18th century, this tradition had become widely recognized in Western culture. Pearls, moonstones, and alexandrites were each officially designated as June birthstones, reflecting the month’s themes of balance, renewal, and emotional depth.
Pearls: The Gems of the Sea
Pearls have long been associated with elegance, purity, and emotional wisdom. The ancient Middle East believed that pearls were teardrops from the heavens, while in China, they were thought to come from the brain of a dragon. Christopher Columbus and his contemporaries speculated that pearls were formed from dew drops inside mollusks. By the 18th century, pearls were officially recognized as the June birthstone, symbolizing emotional balance and grace.
In addition to their physical beauty, pearls have been valued for their symbolic power. They are often associated with femininity, nurturing, and inner peace. Their organic origin—formed by living organisms—sets them apart from other gemstones, and this uniqueness has contributed to their enduring appeal across cultures and time.
Moonstone: The Glow of the Moon
Moonstone, the second June birthstone, is known for its adularescence, a phenomenon where light appears to float across the surface of the gemstone. This effect is what gives moonstone its ethereal glow, reminiscent of moonlight. The name "moonstone" is attributed to the Roman historian Pliny the Elder, who likened the gemstone’s shimmer to the phases of the moon.
Moonstone has long been intertwined with mythology. In Roman and Greek traditions, it was associated with lunar deities such as Diana and Selene. In Hindu mythology, it was believed that moonstone was made of solidified moonbeams. Some cultures used moonstone as a remedy for insomnia and sleepwalking, and it was also regarded as a charm for travelers, hence its nickname, "The Traveller’s Stone."
Alexandrite: The Color-Changing Wonder
Alexandrite is the most recently discovered of the three June birthstones, first identified in the Ural Mountains of Russia in 1834. Named after Czar Alexander II, who received a sample of the gemstone on the occasion of his 16th birthday, alexandrite is known for its remarkable color-changing property, shifting from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. This effect, known as pleochroism, is one of the most visually striking in the gemstone world.
The discovery of alexandrite coincided with its naming, and several individuals have been credited with its identification and naming, including Finnish mineralogist Nils Gustaf Nordenskiöld and Russian mineralogist Count L.A. Perovskii. By the late 19th century, Russian mines had nearly exhausted their supply, and new sources were later discovered in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe.
Alexandrite quickly became a symbol of Russian national pride, mirroring the red and green of the Russian military uniform. It was also believed in some cultures that the gemstone could warn of danger—its color change was interpreted as a sign of impending trouble.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of June’s birthstones has a distinct origin and formation process, shaped by geological and biological factors.
Pearl Formation and Sources
Unlike minerals, pearls are organic gemstones formed within the soft tissue of mollusks, primarily oysters and mussels. The process 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 nacre, a combination of calcium carbonate and conchiolin, which gradually builds up around the irritant, forming a pearl.
Pearls can be found in both saltwater and freshwater environments. Saltwater pearls, such as Akoya pearls from Japan and South Sea pearls from Australia and Indonesia, are known for their high luster and round shape. Freshwater pearls, often produced in China, can take on a variety of shapes and colors, and are typically less expensive than their saltwater counterparts.
The quality of a pearl is determined by several factors, including luster, shape, surface quality, and nacre thickness. Thicker nacre layers result in a more intense luster and a more durable pearl. Pearls with a higher luster are generally more valuable and sought after in the gemstone market.
Moonstone Formation and Sources
Moonstone is a type of feldspar mineral, specifically a variety of the mineral orthoclase. It forms in igneous rocks, particularly in pegmatite deposits, where slow-cooling magma allows for the growth of large crystals. The adularescence effect is caused by the interference of light within the mineral layers, which are composed of alternating layers of orthoclase and albite.
Moonstone is found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, India, Myanmar, Brazil, and the United States. Sri Lankan moonstones, especially those with a blue sheen, are considered the most valuable. The blue adularescence is particularly prized, as it is rare and visually striking.
Alexandrite Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a chrysoberyl gemstone, a mineral that contains the chemical elements beryllium, aluminum, and oxygen. The color-changing property of alexandrite is due to the presence of chromium, which causes the gemstone to absorb and reflect light differently under varying lighting conditions.
Alexandrite is formed in pegmatite and metamorphic rock environments. The first deposits were found in the Ural Mountains of Russia, but by the late 19th century, these mines were nearly depleted. New sources were later discovered in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe. Brazilian alexandrite, in particular, is known for its strong color change from green to red, making it highly desirable.
The scarcity of alexandrite, combined with its unique optical properties, makes it one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. However, synthetic alexandrite has also been produced in laboratories, which has made the gemstone more accessible to a wider audience.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of these three June birthstones is essential for appreciating their beauty and value. Each gemstone has its own unique characteristics that define its appearance, durability, and suitability for jewelry.
Pearl Properties
As an organic gemstone, pearls do not have a traditional Mohs hardness rating, but they are relatively soft and fragile, typically rating between 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This softness makes them prone to scratches and damage from acidic or abrasive substances. Pearls are also sensitive to heat, light, and chemicals, which can cause them to lose luster or even dissolve over time.
The luster of a pearl is one of its most important qualities and is a key factor in determining its value. High-quality pearls exhibit a bright, mirror-like luster, while lower-quality pearls may appear dull or milky. Shape is another important factor, with round pearls being the most desirable and valuable, although pearls can also be found in baroque, drop, button, and other forms.
Pearls are available in a variety of colors, including white, cream, pink, lavender, gold, and black. The color of a pearl is determined by the type of mollusk, the environment in which it was formed, and the presence of trace elements in the nacre.
Moonstone Properties
Moonstone is a feldspar mineral with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, making it relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches from harder materials. It has a specific gravity of 2.55 to 2.58, and a refractive index of 1.518 to 1.526, which contributes to its adularescent effect.
Moonstone is typically translucent to opaque, and is available in a range of colors, including white, gray, blue, pink, and orange. The most valuable moonstones are those with a blue sheen, as this is the most visually striking and rare. The adularescence effect is most visible when the gemstone is viewed from the side or when it is exposed to a white background.
Moonstone is also known for its cleavage, which is perfect in one direction, making it more prone to chipping or breaking if mishandled. This characteristic means that moonstone is best suited for cabochon cuts, which minimize the risk of damage.
Alexandrite Properties
Alexandrite is one of the hardest June birthstones, with a Mohs hardness of 8.5, making it highly durable and suitable for everyday wear. It has a specific gravity of 3.71 to 3.74, and a refractive index of 1.746 to 1.755, which contributes to its vivid color change.
Alexandrite is a transparent to translucent gemstone, and is known for its strong pleochroism, or color change, from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. This effect is caused by the presence of chromium, which affects the way the gemstone absorbs and reflects light. The most valuable alexandrites are those that display a vivid green to red color change, with a high clarity and strong luster.
Alexandrite is also known for its rarity, which contributes to its high value in the gemstone market. While natural alexandrite is extremely rare, synthetic alexandrite is also available and is often used as an alternative for those who cannot afford the high prices of natural stones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of June’s birthstones carries its own set of symbolic and metaphysical meanings, which have been passed down through generations and are still believed by many today.
Pearls: Wisdom, Purity, and Emotional Balance
Pearls have long been associated with wisdom, purity, and emotional balance. In many cultures, they are believed to promote inner peace, calmness, and emotional healing. They are also associated with femininity, nurturing, and the moon, making them a popular choice for wedding jewelry and maternity gifts.
In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, pearls are believed to have positive effects on the heart and circulatory system, and are used in healing rituals and meditation. Some cultures also believe that pearls can absorb negative energy and protect the wearer from illness and misfortune.
Moonstone: Intuition, Love, and Protection
Moonstone is associated with intuition, love, and emotional stability. It is believed to enhance empathy, compassion, and emotional sensitivity, making it a popular gemstone for those who seek emotional healing and spiritual growth.
In Hindu and Greek mythology, moonstone is believed to be made from solidified moonbeams, and is associated with fertility, love, and dreams. It is also believed to help with sleep disorders and anxiety, and is often used in dreamwork and lucid dreaming practices.
Moonstone is also considered a protective stone, especially for travelers and those who work at night. It is believed to provide protection, guidance, and a sense of calm and balance in unfamiliar or challenging situations.
Alexandrite: Transformation, Passion, and Intuition
Alexandrite is associated with transformation, passion, and intuition. It is believed to help the wearer adapt to change, embrace new opportunities, and trust their intuition. This makes it a popular gemstone for those who are going through a life transition or a period of personal growth.
In some cultures, alexandrite is believed to warn the wearer of danger, with the color change being interpreted as a sign of impending trouble. It is also believed to enhance creativity, inspiration, and emotional balance, making it a popular gemstone for artists, writers, and healers.
Alexandrite is also associated with love and relationships, and is often given as a gift to express deep affection and commitment. Its color-changing property is seen as a metaphor for love that changes and evolves over time, making it a meaningful and symbolic choice for engagement rings, anniversary gifts, and other romantic gestures.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of June’s birthstones. Each gemstone has its own set of care requirements, based on its hardness, luster, and sensitivity to heat, light, and chemicals.
Caring for Pearls
Pearls require gentle handling and regular maintenance to preserve their luster and integrity. They should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and abrasions. Pearls should also be removed before swimming, showering, or applying cosmetics, as chlorine, saltwater, and chemicals can damage the nacre and cause the pearls to lose luster or even dissolve over time.
To clean pearls, use a soft, damp cloth and gently wipe them with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can damage the pearls and cause them to lose their shape or luster.
Caring for Moonstone
Moonstone is relatively durable, but it is still susceptible to scratches and damage from heat and chemicals. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches, and avoided when using abrasive or acidic substances.
Moonstone can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause cracking or chipping due to the gemstone’s cleavage.
Moonstone should also be avoided when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause fading or discoloration over time.
Caring for Alexandrite
Alexandrite is one of the hardest June birthstones, making it suitable for everyday wear and frequent use. However, it should still be handled with care, especially when storing and cleaning, to prevent scratches or damage.
Alexandrite can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and a mild soap and water solution. It can also be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner, but care should be taken to avoid exposure to high heat, which can affect the gemstone’s color and clarity.
Alexandrite should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and abrasions, and should be avoided when exposed to harsh chemicals or abrasive substances.
Conclusion
June’s three birthstones—pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite—each offer a unique blend of beauty, symbolism, and history that makes them highly valued in the world of gemstones. Pearls, with their organic origin and timeless elegance, have long been associated with wisdom, purity, and emotional balance. Moonstone, with its adularescent glow and mystical allure, is believed to enhance intuition, love, and protection. Alexandrite, with its remarkable color change and vibrant energy, is a symbol of transformation, passion, and intuition.
Whether chosen for jewelry, healing, or personal significance, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire, reflecting the rich history and enduring appeal of June’s birthstone tradition.