June marks the onset of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and brings with it an abundance of life and vitality. It is also the month of the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and a time of celebration and joy.
But for those born in June, it holds a special significance as it is associated with not one, not two, but three exquisite birthstones: Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite. Each of these gems has a unique history, lore, and symbolism, making them a fascinating choice for anyone looking to add something special to their jewelry collection.
Pearl: The Queen of Gems
Pearls are the only gemstones that come from living organisms, namely mollusks such as oysters and mussels. Since ancient times, they have been prized for their lustrous beauty and rarity and are associated with royalty, wealth, and purity. In fact, the ancient Greeks believed that pearls were the tears of the gods, while the Romans considered them a symbol of power and prestige.
The most common type is the cultured pearl, which is created by inserting a nucleus or irritant into the mollusk's mantle tissue and allowing it to secrete layers of nacre around it. The resulting pearl can come in a variety of colors, from white and cream to pink, lavender, and black. The highest-quality pearls are round, smooth, and have a deep, rich luster.
In terms of symbolism, pearls are said to represent innocence, purity, and wisdom. They are often given as gifts to mark special occasions such as weddings, graduations, or milestone birthdays. Pearls are also a popular choice for bridal jewelry, as they are believed to bring good luck and happiness to the wearer.
Moonstone: The Stone of Mystery
Moonstone is a unique gemstone revered for its mystic properties for centuries. It is named for its resemblance to the moon, with a pearly sheen and shimmering hues that range from white to grey to blue. Moonstone is a type of feldspar mineral found in many parts of the world, including India, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
In ancient times, moonstone was believed to have magical powers that could protect the wearer from harm and bring good fortune. It was also thought to have a connection to the moon and its cycles, making it a popular choice for women's fertility and menstrual health.
Today, moonstone is prized for its beauty, symbolism, and healing properties. It is believed to enhance intuition, creativity, and emotional balance, as well as promote harmony, love, and spiritual growth. Moonstone is used in meditation, yoga, and energy healing, and it is a popular gemstone for engagement rings and other romantic jewelry.
Alexandrite: The Chameleon Gem
Alexandrite is a rare and coveted gemstone prized for its unique color-changing properties. It was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s and was named after Alexander II. It is a variety of chrysoberyl minerals that changes color depending on the lighting conditions, appearing green in daylight and reddish-purple in incandescent light.
The presence of chromium and other trace elements in the crystal lattice of the gemstone causes the color change phenomenon. The most valuable alexandrites exhibit a strong and distinct change, with a vivid green hue in daylight and a rich red hue in incandescent light.
When it comes to symbolism, alexandrite represents balance, transformation, and good fortune. It is believed to help the wearer navigate through changes and transitions in their life and adapt to new situations. It is also considered a lucky gemstone, as it brings prosperity and success to those who wear it.
Final Thoughts
The beauty and significance of June's birthstones cannot be overstated. Whether you choose the classic elegance of pearls, the ethereal glow of moonstones, or the enchanting color-changing properties of alexandrite, each gem offers a timeless and meaningful addition to any jewelry piece. If you or someone you know is born in June, consider incorporating one (or all) of these stunning birthstones into your next jewelry purchase to symbolize this month's abundance and vitality.
At Clark and Sons Gems, we offer a wide selection of precious gemstone engagement rings and other jewelry pieces featuring June's birthstones. Our staff will help you find the perfect piece to celebrate a special occasion or treat yourself to something beautiful. Contact us today to inquire about the price and availability of our June birthstone collection.