June boasts not one, but three recognized birthstones: Alexandrite, Pearl, and Moonstone. Each gem possesses a unique history, captivating beauty, and symbolic significance, offering a diverse range of options for those born in this vibrant month. While Alexandrite is considered the contemporary June birthstone, Pearl and Moonstone maintain a strong traditional association, providing a wealth of choices for personalizing birthstone jewelry.
History and Lore
The association of gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, though the specific assignments have evolved. Pearl and Moonstone have long histories intertwined with mythology and tradition. Moonstone, before becoming a June birthstone, was once considered a sacred stone believed to bestow understanding upon its wearer, and even the power of invisibility. Pearl, similarly, has been revered for centuries, often associated with purity and innocence.
Alexandrite, however, is a relatively modern addition to the birthstone canon. Its discovery in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 19th century coincided with the birthday of Czar Alexander II, leading to its naming. The stone quickly gained recognition for its remarkable color-changing ability, a phenomenon that captivated gemologists and collectors alike. Initially, Alexandrite replaced Pearl as the primary June birthstone, under the belief that it was more abundant. This proved incorrect, as high-quality Alexandrite remains exceptionally rare and valuable.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these three June birthstones are quite distinct. Pearls are organic gems, formed within the soft tissue of a living shelled mollusk, either natural pearls forming spontaneously or cultured pearls grown with human intervention. Moonstone is a feldspar mineral, formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Alexandrite, a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, forms in metamorphic rocks rich in beryllium.
Alexandrite was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia, but those mines are now largely depleted. Fortunately, deposits have since been found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and the United States. Moonstone is sourced from Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Brazil, offering a wide range of colors and variations.
Gemological Properties
Each of these June birthstones exhibits unique gemological properties.
Alexandrite: This gem is renowned for its dramatic color change. In daylight or fluorescent light, it appears greenish-blue, while under incandescent light, it shifts to reddish-purple. Most Alexandrite stones are under 5 carats in weight, with larger stones being exceptionally rare.
Pearl: Pearls are judged on their nacre quality, luster, size, shape, and color. They lack a crystalline structure and are composed of calcium carbonate in concentric layers.
Moonstone: Moonstone displays a captivating optical phenomenon called adularescence – a milky, billowy glow that seems to emanate from within the stone. This effect is caused by microscopic layers of feldspar that scatter light. Moonstone varies in color from translucent to bluish-white to peach tones, with blue-toned stones generally considered more valuable due to their relative rarity.
Here's a table summarizing key properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color | Optical Phenomenon | Hardness (Mohs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandrite | Beryllium Aluminum Oxide | Greenish-blue to reddish-purple | Color Change | 8.5 |
| Pearl | Calcium Carbonate | White, cream, pink, black, etc. | Luster | 2.5 - 4.5 |
| Moonstone | Feldspar | Translucent, bluish-white, peach | Adularescence | 6 - 6.5 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Garnets were once believed to be protective stones, shielding wearers from injury, and were popular among warriors and royalty. Red garnets were also connected to vitality, love, and light.
Moonstone has long been associated with intuition and emotional balance. Some believed it could provide a sense of understanding and even invisibility. Its translucent quality was thought to allow it to blend with the wearer’s complexion, creating a sense of unity.
Pearls have traditionally symbolized purity, innocence, and faith. They are often associated with water and the moon, representing femininity and emotional depth.
Alexandrite, due to its color-changing properties, is often linked to balance, good fortune, and intuition. Its ability to appear different in different lights is seen as a metaphor for adaptability and inner strength.
Care and Cleaning
The care required for each of these June birthstones varies based on their properties. Alexandrite, with its relatively high hardness, is durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. However, due to its rarity and value, professional cleaning is recommended.
Pearls are delicate and require gentle care. They should be wiped clean with a soft, damp cloth after each wearing. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and abrasive materials, as these can damage the nacre. Pearls should also be stored separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching.
Moonstone, with a moderate hardness, should be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. Due to its layered structure, moonstone can be prone to cracking, so handle it with care.
Combining June Birthstones
The availability of three birthstones for June offers unique opportunities for creative jewelry design. Combining pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite in a single piece can create a stunning and personalized statement. For example, a pendant featuring an alexandrite stone surrounded by diamonds, or a ring incorporating all three gems, would be a truly unique and meaningful piece. The diverse colors and variations within each stone allow for endless combinations and possibilities. Lighter moonstones pair well with pearls and white diamonds, while darker moonstones contrast beautifully with pearls, white diamonds, and even colored diamonds.
Conclusion
June’s birthstones – Alexandrite, Pearl, and Moonstone – represent a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the rare color-changing allure of Alexandrite to the timeless elegance of Pearls and the ethereal glow of Moonstone, these gems offer a diverse range of options for those seeking a meaningful connection to their birth month. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, their historical significance, or their metaphysical properties, these three treasures continue to enchant and inspire.