June Birthstones: Which One to Choose

 

Most months typically only have one birthstone associated with it. But those born in the month of June are part of the lucky few who can claim multiple different birthstones. In fact, there are three June birthstones: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. Pearl is considered the more traditional June birthstone, while moonstone and alexandrite are modern alternatives. If you’re a June baby or are simply shopping for one, you have an abundance of different choices when it comes to birthstone jewelry.

The Meaning Behind June Birthstones

The fun thing about gemstones is they all hold different meanings and symbolism. And that’s the best part about giving birthstone jewelry as a birthday gift. Not only is it a beautiful gesture, it can also hold a deeper meaning which gives more sentimentality to the gift. Let’s take a closer look into each of the June birthstones to help you decide which would be the perfect gift for your June-born loved one.

Pearl: June’s Traditional Birthstone

Are you stuck under the impression that pearls are “grandma’s jewelry”? Well, we’re here to change your mind. Let’s take a moment to talk about how amazing pearls actually are. First, they are the only gemstone that comes from the ocean. Second, they are the only gemstone that comes from living creatures (sea mollusks). And third, pearls are the only gemstone that do not need to be cut and polished; they are perfect just the way they are.

We can all agree that pearls have a classic, sophisticated appearance. They’ve been worn and adored for centuries by First Ladies, royalty, and other society matrons. But this doesn’t mean they can only be worn by those considered to be “high-class.” Pearls can be worn by anyone, any age, and with any outfit. Another great thing about pearls is the wide variety of shapes and colors they come in. Each color symbolizes something different:

• White pearls symbolize innocence, beauty, purity, and new beginnings
• Black or gold pearls symbolize wealth and prosperity
• Blue pearls symbolize love
• Pink pearls symbolize success, fame, and good fortune
• Brown pearls symbolize practicality, dependability, and harmony

With the variety of colors, shapes, and meanings it’s easy to find the perfect pearl jewelry gift for your June-born loved one. However, pearls do require a bit of extra care compared to other gemstones because they’re so delicate. Pearls should always be the last thing you put on when getting dressed. This is to avoid any makeup, hairspray, perfume, and other cosmetics damaging these precious gems. Furthermore, pearls should always be wiped clean with a damp cloth after wearing to keep their luster and shine. Do not clean pearls with ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

Alexandrite: June’s Modern Birthstone 

Alexandrite is one of the most unique gemstones out there. Remember the mood rings we all used to wear when we were younger? Well, alexandrite is the fine jewelry version of those mood rings. Although it was temperature that changed the color of the mood rings, this gorgeous June birthstone changes color in different sources of light. In daylight, alexandrite displays a greenish-bluish hue. But once brought into incandescent lighting, its color changes to a purplish-red. Alexandrite ranks 8.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, making it perfect for everyday wear. It is because of its durability and its unique color changing abilities that fine alexandrite can be one of the costliest gemstones in the world.

But it is a gemstone that is well worth the price tag. Not only is it one of the most eye-catching of the June birthstones, it also holds many different meanings. Alexandrite is believed to strengthen intuition, aid creativity, and expand the imagination. It is also said to bring peace and positivity, so it is the perfect gemstone for any happy-go-lucky June baby. Alexandrite should be carefully cleaned with warm, soapy water, or by ultrasonic and steam cleaners.

Moonstone: June’s Mystical Birthstone

Last, but most certainly not least, is the moonstone. Ancient Romans believed moonstone was frozen moonlight. Pliny, the Roman historian, wrote that moonstone’s appearance shifted with the phases of the moon. According to Hindu mythology, this gemstone was created by solidified moonbeams. Now, we know moonstone isn’t actually from the moon. But what exactly is it? Moonstone is a type of the mineral feldspar, usually with a bluish tone. However, it can also be found in colors such as pink, yellow, green, and gray. The distinguishing characteristic of the moonstone is its adularescence, which is the light that appears to billow across the stone. This effect is reminiscent of a shimmering full moon peeking through a sky full of milky white clouds.

This June birthstone is the perfect gift for any June baby with a love of all things cosmic and celestial. As its name suggests, moonstone is associated with lunar mystery and magic. In different lighting and at different angles, it truly does look like a little piece of the moon. This shimmering gemstone is believed to have calming and balancing energies. Moonstone is also believed to be a “dream stone,” used to treat insomnia and sleepwalking, encourage sound sleep, and promote vivid dreams. Magical moonstones should always be cleaned with warm, soapy water- never with ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

Find June Birthstone Jewelry at Leo Hamel’s

Are you on the hunt for the perfect June birthstone present? Well, you’re in luck! It’s easy to find stunning birthday gifts at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. From moonstone rings, to pearl necklaces, to alexandrite earrings, you are sure to find something spectacular in our vast collection of beautiful fine jewelry. Love all three of these beautiful gemstones? Talk to one of our Master Jewelers about designing a custom piece containing all three June birthstones!

So, which of the June birthstones is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook or Instagram.

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