The concept of associating specific gemstones with months of the year is a tradition with deep historical roots, yet its modern form is the result of a relatively recent standardization effort. For those born in June, the selection of birthstones is particularly diverse, encompassing organic gems and rare color-changing minerals. The traditional birthstone for June is the Pearl, an organic gem formed within living mollusks. However, modern lists have expanded to include Alexandrite, a gemstone celebrated for its dramatic change in color, and Moonstone, known for its ethereal sheen. While historical sources confirm the Pearl's long-standing association with the month, the inclusion of Alexandrite and Moonstone reflects a 20th-century evolution designed to provide consumers with greater choice in color, durability, and style.
This article examines the unique properties of June's birthstones, drawing upon historical records and gemological data to explore their formation, characteristics, and cultural significance. It also contextualizes the addition of these stones within the broader history of birthstone standardization, a process driven by jewelers and trade organizations to streamline the selection of gems for jewelry.
The Historical Evolution of Birthstone Lists
The practice of wearing a specific gemstone as a "natal stone" is a custom that, according to historical accounts, originated in Poland during the eighteenth century. Early theological writers such as St. Jerome in the fifth century had drawn connections between the twelve stones of the High Priest’s breastplate and the twelve months of the year, but there is little evidence that individuals wore these stones as personal talismans until much later.
The modern standardization of birthstones began in earnest in 1912. Prior to this, confusion existed regarding which stones represented which months. The goal of the 1912 standardization was to create a consistent list for jewelers and consumers in the United States and the United Kingdom. However, this list was not static. Over the decades, it has been modified to reflect market availability, consumer preference, and the discovery of new gemstones.
For June, the traditional list originally featured only the Pearl. The expansion to include Alexandrite and Moonstone was a later addition. According to historical data, the modern chart became standard in 1912, but the list has seen revisions. For instance, tourmaline was added to August, spinel to October, and zircon and later tanzanite to December. The addition of Alexandrite and Moonstone to June provided color choices and durability options beyond the organic Pearl. This evolution allows for personalization; a June-born individual might prefer the distinct color-changing properties of Alexandrite over the milky luster of Moonstone or the classic white of a Pearl.
June’s Traditional Birthstone: Pearl
Pearl is the traditional birthstone for June and is unique among gems because it is organic, originating not from the earth’s crust but from living creatures. Pearls form within the soft tissue of a mollusk, such as an oyster or mussel, as a defense mechanism against an irritant.
Types of Pearls
There are three distinct categories of pearls found in the market today:
- Natural Pearls: These form spontaneously in the wild without human intervention. They are exceptionally rare and command high prices due to the difficulty of harvesting and their scarcity.
- Cultured Pearls: These are the most common type available today. Humans intervene by inserting a "seed" (usually a piece of shell) into the mollusk to stimulate nacre deposition. While they are cultivated by people, they are real pearls composed of the same material as natural ones. Cultured pearls make up the vast majority of the market and are significantly more affordable than natural pearls.
- Imitation Pearls: These are not genuine pearls but are usually plastic beads coated with a pearlescent substance to mimic the appearance of real pearls. While inexpensive, they lack the depth and durability of natural or cultured pearls.
Durability and Care
Pearls possess a relatively low hardness compared to mineral gems. They are easily scratched and require careful handling. Sources indicate that pearls are rated as having "Fair to Poor" durability on generalized birthstone durability charts because of their susceptibility to abrasion. To maintain a pearl birthstone, it is essential to avoid contact with harsh chemicals (such as perfume or hairspray) and to store them separately from harder gems that could scratch their surface.
The Modern Addition: Alexandrite
Alexandrite is one of the most fascinating gemstones associated with June. It was added to the June birthstone list to provide a durable alternative to Pearl and Moonstone. Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl and is renowned for its pleochroism, specifically its ability to change color based on the light source.
The Phenomenon of Color Change
Alexandrite appears green to bluish-green in daylight or fluorescent light and transitions to a reddish-purple or pink hue under incandescent light. This phenomenon occurs because the gem's crystal structure absorbs light in the yellow portion of the spectrum while transmitting green and red light. The balance of these colors shifts depending on the light source, creating the dramatic shift.
Durability
Alexandrite is a highly durable gemstone. It ranks at least 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it resistant to scratching and suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets that are subject to daily wear. This places it in the "Very Good" category for durability, alongside aquamarine and spinel.
The Ethereal Moonstone
Moonstone is the third official birthstone for June. It is a variety of the mineral feldspar and is prized for its unique optical phenomenon known as adularescence.
Adularescence
Moonstone displays a billowy, moving light effect that resembles the moon passing behind clouds. This sheen is caused by the intergrowth of two different types of feldspar within the stone. The best quality moonstones exhibit a colorless sheen with a blue hue, often referred to as "blue sheen."
Durability and Care
While beautiful, Moonstone is somewhat more delicate than Alexandrite. It has "perfect cleavage," meaning it can split easily if struck with force. Additionally, its hardness is moderate. Sources categorize Moonstone as having durability concerns similar to Topaz and Tanzanite, noting that it "will break easily" if not handled with care. Consequently, Moonstone jewelry should be protected from hard knocks and extreme temperature changes.
Gemological Properties and Durability Comparison
To better understand the suitability of June's birthstones for jewelry, it is helpful to compare their physical properties. The following table summarizes the key characteristics based on gemological data provided in the sources.
| Birthstone | Mineral Family | Hardness (Mohs) | Durability Rating | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pearl | Organic (Nacre) | 2.5 - 4.5 | Fair to Poor | Organic formation; easily scratched. |
| Alexandrite | Chrysoberyl | 8.5 | Very Good | Strong color change (green to red). |
| Moonstone | Feldspar | 6.0 - 6.5 | Fair | Adularescence (sheen); perfect cleavage. |
As the data indicates, Alexandrite is the most durable of the three, making it an excellent choice for rings intended for daily wear. Pearl requires the most care, while Moonstone sits in the middle, requiring protection from impact due to its cleavage.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been attributed with various powers and meanings. While the sources provided focus largely on physical properties and history, the cultural significance of these stones is well-documented in broader gemological literature.
- Pearl: Historically, pearls have symbolized purity, innocence, and humility. They were often worn by royalty and brides for their association with tears and mourning, though this evolved into a symbol of tears of joy.
- Alexandrite: Discovered in the 19th century in the Ural Mountains of Russia, Alexandrite became a symbol of national pride. Its red and green colors mirrored the military colors of Imperial Russia. It is often associated with good fortune and the balancing of opposites.
- Moonstone: Long associated with the moon and the night, Moonstone has been linked to romance, intuition, and sleep. In various cultures, it was believed to be a talisman for lovers and a conduit for prophetic visions.
Care and Cleaning Recommendations
Proper maintenance is essential to preserve the beauty of birthstone jewelry. The care requirements for June's stones vary significantly due to their differing physical properties.
Pearl Care: * Pearls should be wiped with a soft, damp cloth after wear to remove oils and sweat. * They should never be soaked in water or cleaned with ultrasonic cleaners. * Chemicals found in cosmetics, hairspray, and perfume can damage the nacre; pearls should be the last thing put on and the first thing taken off.
Alexandrite Care: * Due to its high hardness, Alexandrite is relatively easy to care for. * Warm, soapy water and a soft brush are sufficient for cleaning. * Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, but steam cleaning should be approached with caution if the stone has significant inclusions or fractures.
Moonstone Care: * Moonstone is sensitive to heat and sudden temperature changes. * Warm, soapy water is the safest cleaning method. * Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, as the vibrations and heat can cause the stone to crack or fracture along its cleavage planes.
Lab-Created Alternatives
In the modern jewelry market, lab-created versions of these birthstones are widely available. Lab-grown gems offer several advantages: they are environmentally sustainable, ethically sourced, and significantly less expensive than their natural counterparts.
Lab-created Alexandrite and Moonstone are available, though they are less common than lab-created Pearls (cultured pearls) or lab-created Emeralds. However, for those seeking the aesthetic of these stones without the high cost or rarity, synthetic options are a viable alternative. It is standard industry practice, and a requirement of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Guides for the Jewelry Industry, to clearly disclose if a gemstone is lab-created or synthetic. Consumers should always check product labeling and receipts to ensure they are purchasing the type of gemstone they intend.
Conclusion
The June birthstone selection offers a unique trio of gems that cater to a wide range of tastes and practical needs. The traditional Pearl offers classic elegance and organic beauty, though it requires diligent care. Moonstone provides a mystical, ethereal option with its signature sheen, but must be protected from impact. Alexandrite, a modern addition, brings a scientific marvel to the month with its striking color change and exceptional durability.
The expansion of the June birthstone list from just the Pearl to include Alexandrite and Moonstone exemplifies the dynamic nature of gemstone tradition. It reflects a shift toward accommodating consumer desires for variety, durability, and personalization. Whether chosen for their historical significance, scientific intrigue, or aesthetic appeal, these gems represent the rich diversity of the mineral and organic worlds.