The month of June holds a unique distinction within the gemological calendar. While most months are assigned a single gemstone, June boasts three official stones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. This trio offers an extraordinary spectrum of choices for those born in this month, ranging from the organic, classic elegance of the pearl to the optical phenomenon of moonstone and the dramatic color-changing properties of alexandrite. Each stone carries its own distinct history, geological origin, and set of symbolic meanings, providing a diverse palette for personal adornment and significance.
The existence of three birthstones for June provides a flexibility unmatched by most other months. As noted in gemological discussions, this variety allows individuals to select a gem that fits their personal style, budget, or specific mood. The pearl stands as the oldest and most traditional option, revered for centuries. Moonstone offers an ethereal, celestial glow, while alexandrite represents a more modern addition, celebrated for its rarity and unique visual properties. Together, these stones represent purity, intuition, and transformation, making June one of the most enchanting months in the birthstone collection.
History and Lore of the June Stones
The historical significance of the June birthstones is as varied as the gems themselves. The pearl, being organic, has a history that predates written records. Ancient civilizations were fascinated by its origin. In the Middle East, a prevailing belief held that pearls were teardrops fallen from heaven. The Chinese mythology suggested that pearls originated from the brain of a dragon, while Christopher Columbus and his contemporaries theorized that mollusks formed pearls from dewdrops. These early attempts to explain the pearl’s creation underscore the sense of wonder it inspired. Historically, pearls have symbolized purity, wealth, and high status, often being associated with royalty.
Moonstone, with its glowing adularescence, has also been steeped in lore. It is deeply tied to the divine feminine and is believed to represent emotional balance. Throughout history, it has been associated with lunar energy and is often favored by those seeking serenity and creativity. Its connection to the moon extends to its perceived ability to enhance intuition and spiritual connection.
Alexandrite is the newest member of the June trio and has a specific origin story that adds to its mystique. It was discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s and was named after the future Tsar Alexander II. The stone's ability to change color from green in daylight to red in incandescent light was seen as a symbol of duality, embodying the duality of the Russian imperial colors—red and green. This property made it particularly significant for those born under the sign of Gemini, representing transformation and balance. Its rarity and unique optical characteristic quickly made it a prized gem in the modern era.
The formalization of these stones as birthstones is a more recent development. The traditional birthstone for June has long been the pearl. Moonstone was added as a secondary birthstone, and later, in 1952, the American National Association of Jewelers added alexandrite to the list, solidifying the trio of options available to June-born individuals.
Geological Formation and Mining Sources
The geological origins of the three June birthstones could not be more different, highlighting the diverse nature of gem formation. Pearls are unique among gemstones because they are organic, not mineral. They grow inside the tissue of a living saltwater or freshwater mollusk, such as an oyster or a mussel. The process begins when an irritant, such as a piece of sand or a parasite, enters the mollusk’s shell. In response, the mollusk secretes a substance called nacre (calcium carbonate) to coat the irritant. Over time, layers of nacre build up to form a pearl. Natural pearls are extremely rare and form without human intervention, while cultured pearls are the result of human intervention where a nucleus is intentionally inserted into the mollusk.
Pearls are sourced from oceans, lakes, and rivers around the world. Historically, the Persian Gulf was a significant source of natural pearls, but today, major pearl farming operations are located in countries such as Japan, China, Australia, and French Polynesia.
In stark contrast, moonstone and alexandrite are silicate minerals formed deep within the Earth’s crust. Moonstone is a variety of the mineral feldspar. Its signature glow, known as adularescence, is caused by the intergrowth of two different feldspar minerals (orthoclase and albite) in microscopic layers. When light hits these layers, it scatters in a way that produces a floating, billowy light effect across the stone's surface.
Moonstone is mined in various locations globally. Sources of high-quality moonstone include Sri Lanka, India, and Madagascar. Some deposits are also found in the United States and Brazil.
Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Its chemical composition is beryllium aluminum oxide, and its unique color-changing property is due to the presence of chromium ions replacing aluminum ions in the crystal structure. The presence of chromium absorbs light in the yellow portion of the spectrum, but the way the human eye perceives light and the specific light sources (daylight vs. incandescent) cause the stone to appear green and red, respectively.
The original and most prized deposits of alexandrite were discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia. These mines produced stones with the most vivid color change. While these Russian deposits are now largely depleted, other sources have been found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa. Brazilian alexandrite, while abundant, often does not match the color-changing quality of the historic Russian stones.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite vary significantly, which influences their use in jewelry and how they should be cared for. The table below summarizes key properties for the pearl, as detailed in the provided materials.
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthstone | Pearl |
| Month | June |
| Color | White, cream, black, pink, or lavender |
| Symbolism | Purity, wisdom, beauty, innocence |
| Element | Water |
| Chakra | Heart Chakra |
| Metaphysical Uses | Promoting calmness, emotional healing, enhancing relationships |
| Healing Properties | Thought to improve digestive health, support skin healing, emotional balance |
| Associated Traits | Purity, calmness, sincerity, elegance |
| Care | Keep away from chemicals, perfumes; clean with a soft cloth |
Pearl: Pearls are rated between 2.5 and 4.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes them relatively soft compared to other gemstones. They do not possess cleavage, but their toughness is fair to poor. Pearls are composed of calcium carbonate in the form of aragonite or calcite. Their luster is a critical quality factor, referring to the amount and quality of light reflected from the surface. Pearls come in a wide array of colors, including white, cream, pink, and lavender. Black pearls, often called Tahitian pearls, are also highly valued.
Moonstone: Moonstone is a member of the feldspar group and has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. It has perfect cleavage in one direction, making it susceptible to breakage if struck with force. The most prized moonstones exhibit a strong blue sheen (adularescence) over a colorless or near-colorless body. The quality of this phenomenon is the primary factor in determining its value.
Alexandrite: Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl and is a very hard and durable gemstone, rating 8.5 on the Mohs scale. This hardness, combined with a lack of cleavage, makes it an excellent choice for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets that are subject to daily wear. Its refractive index is high, contributing to its brilliance. The defining characteristic of alexandrite is its pleochroism, specifically the strong color change from green to red or purplish-red. The body color can range from light green to bluish-green in daylight, changing to brownish-red or purplish-red in incandescent light.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism attached to each of the June birthstones is profound and reflects their unique characteristics.
- Pearl: The pearl is the quintessential symbol of purity, innocence, and wisdom. Its formation within a living creature connects it to life and emotional healing. It is associated with the Heart Chakra, promoting calmness, sincerity, and elegance. It is believed to bring inner peace and clarity to the wearer.
- Moonstone: As its name suggests, moonstone is linked to the moon and its cycles. It represents intuition, emotional balance, and the divine feminine. It is often used to enhance psychic abilities and to foster a deep connection with one's inner self. Its gentle energy is thought to soothe emotional stress and encourage creative expression.
- Alexandrite: The dramatic color change of alexandrite has made it a powerful symbol of duality, balance, and transformation. It embodies the concept of "seeing the world through two different eyes." It is believed to boost intuition, stimulate creativity, and encourage personal growth. For those born under the sign of Gemini, it is a particularly resonant stone, reflecting their multifaceted nature.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their differing physical properties, the care required for each of the June birthstones varies significantly.
Pearl Care: Because pearls are organic and relatively soft (2.5-4.5 on the Mohs scale), they require special care. They are highly susceptible to damage from acids, alkaline chemicals, and even substances found in cosmetics, hair spray, and perfume. Pearls should be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off. To clean them, simply wipe them with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and harsh detergents, which can damage the nacre and luster. It is recommended to have pearl strands restrung periodically to prevent breakage.
Moonstone Care: With a hardness of 6 and perfect cleavage, moonstone is somewhat delicate. It should be protected from sharp blows and extreme temperature changes, which can cause it to crack. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. As with pearls, ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
Alexandrite Care: Alexandrite is the most durable of the three, with a hardness of 8.5 and no cleavage. It is safe to clean an alexandrite gemstone using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. An ultrasonic cleaner can generally be used, but it is always wise to consult with a professional gemologist, especially if the stone has been fracture-filled or has inclusions.
Conclusion
The June birthstones—pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite—offer a remarkable range of beauty, history, and meaning. From the organic luster of the pearl, a timeless symbol of purity, to the mystical glow of moonstone, and the transformative color change of alexandrite, each gem provides a unique connection to those born in this month. This diversity ensures that every individual can find a stone that resonates with their personal style and spirit. Whether chosen for its classic elegance, its celestial shimmer, or its modern rarity, the gemstones of June remain among the most cherished and enchanting in the world.