June boasts not one, but three recognized birthstones: Alexandrite, Pearl, and Moonstone. Each gem carries a unique history, symbolism, and set of gemological properties, making June birthdays particularly special. While Alexandrite is considered the most modern birthstone for the month, Pearls and Moonstones hold deep roots in tradition and lore. This article will delve into the origins, characteristics, and significance of each of these captivating gemstones.
A Historical Overview
Pearls, arguably the most ancient of the three, have been revered for millennia. Beyond their status as a June birthstone, pearls traditionally commemorate both third and thirtieth wedding anniversaries, signifying enduring love and commitment. Historically, pearls were often white or cream-colored, the hues most commonly associated with the gem even today.
Moonstone also possesses a rich history, dating back to Roman times. The Roman historian Pliny attributed the gem’s name to its shimmery appearance, linking it to the phases of the moon. In both Roman and Greek mythology, Moonstone was associated with lunar deities, while Hindu tradition believed the stone was formed from solidified moonbeams. It was considered a bearer of good luck, and some cultures used it as a remedy for insomnia and sleepwalking, even employing it as a protective charm for nighttime travelers.
Alexandrite, the newest addition to June’s birthstone family, has a more recent, yet equally compelling, history. The gem was named in honor of Alexander II, the heir apparent to the throne of Russia, in the 19th century. Its striking color-changing properties, displaying red and green hues, mirrored the national military colors of Imperial Russia, quickly gaining the country’s favor.
Gemological Properties: Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a highly valued variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, renowned for its remarkable color-changing ability, often described as “emerald by day, ruby by night.” Under normal lighting conditions, it appears as a transparent yellow-green to greenish-blue stone. However, when exposed to polarized light, such as sunlight, it dramatically shifts color, displaying shades of red, dark purple, or orange depending on the viewing angle – a phenomenon known as pleochroism. The most prized Alexandrite exhibits a vivid green to bluish-green in daylight or fluorescent light and a deep red to purplish hue under incandescent light.
Alexandrite registers at 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, indicating exceptional toughness and durability. It possesses no cleavage, meaning it is unlikely to break when struck, making it a suitable choice for rings and other frequently worn jewelry.
Gemological Properties: Pearl
Pearls are unique gems, formed within the soft tissue of a living shelled mollusk. Their color is determined by the mollusk itself, meaning the pearl’s hue reflects the color of the shell’s interior. While white and cream pearls remain popular, contemporary harvests include gold, silver, black, gray, and even gentle pinks, oranges, greens, and blues. These colors are often achieved through creative breeding techniques.
Evaluating pearl quality involves seven key criteria: color, surface, luster, nacre thickness, size, shape, and matching. Color, while important, is just one aspect of a pearl’s overall value.
Gemological Properties: Moonstone
Moonstone is a form of the mineral feldspar, characterized by its pearl-like luster. This luster is created when light penetrates the stone and is reflected within its layered structure. The resulting effect, known as adularescence, gives the gem a special glow, reminiscent of moonlight.
Moonstone typically appears milky white or gray with a white or silvery sheen. However, it can also be found in pink, orange, near-colorless, and even multicolored varieties.
Sources and Mining Locations
Historically, Alexandrite was primarily sourced from the Ural Mountains in Russia. However, today, most Alexandrite originates from Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa. While newer deposits have yielded some fine-quality stones, they generally exhibit less refined color changes and murkier hues compared to the 19th-century Ural Mountain specimens. The scarcity of high-quality Alexandrite, particularly in larger sizes, contributes to its high value.
Pearls are harvested from various species of mollusks around the world, resulting in a wide range of colors. The location of harvest directly influences the pearl’s color.
Moonstone is found in various locations globally, with significant deposits yielding gems exhibiting the prized blue sheen.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these June birthstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Pearls have long represented purity and sincerity. Moonstone is associated with love, passion, and fertility, and was believed to bring magical and beautiful dreams. It was also known as “The Traveller’s Stone,” serving as a protective charm for those journeying at night.
Alexandrite, with its dynamic color change, is often likened to the complexities of love, presenting itself in different shades depending on the light. It is believed to bring good fortune and balance.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness, Alexandrite is relatively durable and can be safely cleaned with ultrasonic or steam cleaners, or simply with warm, soapy water. Pearls, being softer gems (Mohs hardness of 2.5-4), require more delicate care. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and ultrasonic cleaners. Clean pearls with a soft cloth and mild soap. Moonstone, also relatively soft, should be handled with care and cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, as it can fade the color.
Conclusion
Alexandrite, Pearl, and Moonstone each offer a unique blend of beauty, history, and symbolism. From the ancient allure of pearls to the modern fascination with Alexandrite’s color change and the ethereal glow of Moonstone, these three gems collectively represent the diverse and captivating world of June birthstones. Their enduring appeal lies not only in their aesthetic qualities but also in the rich cultural narratives and metaphysical beliefs that have been woven around them for centuries.