What Is the Birthstone for June? A Complete Guide

The auspicious month of June carries the spirit of celebration, warmth, and sunshine. It is believed to be named after Juno, the Roman goddess of marriage, femininity, and growth. This month is all about light and abundance. And this splendour is perfectly reflected in its birthstones. 

Yes, the June birthstone story counts three fascinating gemstones - Pearl, Alexandrite & Moonstone that capture its harmony in the most beautiful way. All three gemstones have distinct appearances, rich histories, and varied metaphysical properties. From statement pearl necklaces to elegant moonstone rings, these gemstones are the most meaningful gifts that make any celebration joyous and memorable. In this guide, we will explore everything about the June birthstone, their history, symbolic meaning, ways to wear them, a few fine jewellery options and a quick care guide.

What Is the Birthstone for June?

Like every birth month, June is also blessed by nature with three precious birthstones - Pearl, Alexandrite & Moonstone. Their resilient beauty and significance make them deeply advantageous for personal wearing, spiritual awakening, and self-enlightenment. From the oceanic beauty of pearls to the delicacy of moonstones, nature has blessed June with enormous prosperity. But why does June have 3 birthstones? Well, there is no geological science or celestial connection behind this.

To standardise gemstone selection choices for users, the Gemological Institute of America created an official list categorising diverse gemstones for specific months according to their historical significance and mineral traits. In 1912, pearl and moonstone were named as the main stones for the month of June. This made them the traditional June birthstones, celebrating the warmth of this lunar month. 

With the evolution of traditions and modern development, a major milestone came during the 1950s when GIA added alexandrite to the official list of June gemstones. This became a true embodiment of luxury, making it the modern June birthstone.

What Color Is the June Birthstone?

The gemstone beauty of June is not just limited to a single colour in particular. Instead, it is decorated with the hues of all three birthstones. The white velvety finish of pearls, the opulent illusion of alexandrite, and the subtle artistry of nature in moonstone make an ethereal fusion of colour shades for June individuals. 

Pearl - The Traditional June Birthstone

The luminous beauty of pearls carry it's virtue from the depths of oceans. Unlike many other gemstones, pearls do not come from the Earth's surface. They are produced by oceanic mussels in reaction to irritants and embedded layer by layer, creating this mystical stone. The history of pearls dates back several centuries along the shores of ancient Mesopotamian civilisations. According to evidence, it is believed to be one of the oldest treasured gemstones of mankind. 

Meaning & Symbolism

In Vedic astrology, the calmness and serenity of pearls are deeply associated with the moon. Among many traditions, they are considered the symbol of peace and abundance. They are often believed to be protectants, guarding the wearer from misfortune and negative energies. The gentle, layer-by-layer formation cycle perfectly depicts the importance of process over perfection. In the present arena, pearls have become a deep symbol of peace, relationships, and harmony. From wedding bands to luxury gifting, they have widespread popularity and demand.

History and Cultural Significance of Pearl

Long before the shelves of jewellery stores, crowns, and riches, pearls were first found on the coastlines of the Persian Gulf. Small, unstructured, luminous objects with a vibrant shine, their unrefined beauty became more than a random discovery. From Egyptian legacy to Roman catholics, pearls started embodying wealth and social status. Coming to Asia, pearls became the symbol of peace, intellect, and prosperity. In parts of India and China, they were connected to celestial studies and mythology. With the advancement of the Industrial Revolution, pearls started getting commercialised in jewellery, handcrafted art, luxury gifts and multiple other trades. The only thing that remains unchanged is its transformative ability to turn normal objects extraordinarily beautiful.

Shades & Types of Pearls

Pearl birthstone comes in diverse colour options and shades. From statement white to the hues of pink, cream, golden, black, purple and grey. It has faded carvings over the surface that depicts that resellient formation process and depth of its origin. This variation largely depends on mollusc species and environmental factors like temperature and salinity. 

The most common type of pearl is freshwater pearls that come from freshwater sources. They are easily accessible and versatile in nature. On the other hand, charcoal pearls or Tahitian pearls are dark and exotic crystals prized highly for their mystical appearance and rarity.

How to Care for Pearl Bracelet?

• Do not bring your pearl bracelet or necklace in contact with perfumes and cosmetic sprays, as it can cause damage to the nacre, deteriorating its shine.

• Protect against heat and harsh rays of the Sun to maintain its luminous appearance.

• Use a mild, natural cleanser and a soft muslin cloth to wipe off dirt and impurities.

Alexandrite - The Rare June Birthstone

The beauty and rarity of alexandrite make it the most precious and preserved in the gemstone world. Green in daylight and red by night, alexandrite is highly valued for its colour-changing effects. It belongs to the chrysoberyl family and displays extraordinary beauty of light with the availability of chromium in its atomic structure. However, an important fact is that not all chrysoberyl is alexandrite; only the one composed of chromium and vanadium depicts the light-changing alexandrite effects. This specificity makes it one of the rarest gemstones and the June birthstone of times. 

Alexandrite Meaning and Symbolism

The highly resilient formation process of alexandrite embodies renewal, transformation, growth, and balance. It perfectly metaphorizes the idea of transformation according to the environment without loosing it's actual beauty.

Alexandrite - History & Beliefs

The history of alexandrite dates back to the 19th-century Russian Empire, where it was first discovered in the Ural Mountains in the 1830s. Named after the historic Emperor Alexandrite II, its dual shades resemble the colour of the imperial russian flag, adding royal prestige and honour to it. Other than Russia, alexandrite is also found in parts of Sri Lanka, Brazil, India, and Myanmar in small amounts, making them secondary deposits of alexandrite. 

How Rare and Expensive Is Alexandrite?

Original alexandrite crystals with colour-changing effects are extremely rare and expensive. The original Russian deposit alexandrite of fine quality has become scarce. This has made Brazil, Sri Lanka, and India the emerging markets for alexandrite. The actual cost of alexandrite largely depends on its quality, source, and colour grading. High-quality alexandrite of one carat can cost several thousand dollars. This makes it one of the most expensive gemstones available on Earth.

How to Care for Alexandrite Bracelet?

• The high durability of alexandrite makes it perfect for high impact activites. However, it is important to pay close attention to avoid surface damage.

• Store it separately from your other jewels. Use a soft, cushioned box for a safer approach.

• Check the setting regularly. There is no doubt that alexandrite's hardness is a great protect to it. But it is important to check its fix from a professional gemstone jeweller for safety.

Moonstone - The Mystical June Birthstone

 Moonstone, known for its mystical appearance and glow, resembles the beauty of the moon. It is part of the feldspar mineral group and is infamous for its adularescence effect, in which light scatters through its different layers, casting a beautiful optical illusion. This precious stone is connected with the third eye and crown chakra, supporting emotional and mental well-being. Adding its energies to life helps build trust, calms fear and anxiety, and welcomes new beginnings and growth.

Moonstone Meaning and Properties

In many cultures, moonstone is believed to be a gemstone of healing and balance. It connects you with lunar wisdom and nurtures intuition, soothes emotions, and encourages inner peace. The balancing energies of the moon birthstone guide you through uncertainty, provide clarity, and give confidence and protection. Wearing a moonstone bracelet or ring strengthens feminine energy, supporting hormonal well-being and tangled emotions. 

Mythology of Moonstone

The human connection to moonstone started thousands of years back when a mystical stone with radiant lighting effects first caught attention. According to the Romans, moonstones were birthed from the solidified effects of moonlight. This devloped it's rich traditional association with the lunar goddess Diana, the Roman deity of wisdom, intuition, and divine feminine energy. From here, the moonstone acquired a reputation as a sacred gemstone and one of the best birthstones for June.

Travelling to India, the significance of moonstone started connecting with spiritual healing and mythology. It became a symbol of protection and divine support owing to its luminous glow. Meditation practitioners and healing experts started using it for aligning intuition and attracting positive energies. Still, across large parts of the globe, moonstone jewellery is used as a symbol of prosperity, good luck, and growth.

Pearl vs Alexandrite vs Moonstone: Which Should You Choose?

The perfect June birthstone can never be defined by its rarity, opulence, or beauty. It should be the one that resonates with your personality and spirit. 

• If you are a calm and gentle individual looking for everyday elegance and sophistication, pearl is definitely the birthstone for you. Its soft appearance and celestial significance make it an ideal choice for anyone seeking growth and balance in life.
• Go for alexandrite if you're looking for something exceptionally alluring and rare. Its mystical colour drama and effects make it one of the most valuable gemstone assets on Earth. The dual tones of Alexandrite represent the perfect combination of life and energy. For anyone looking for growth and transformation, alexandrite is the best fit.
• Choose moonstone for self-enlightenment and deep intuition guidance. This celestial-like stone with a dreamy appearance can be a great partner in the journey of the inner realm and transformation. From moonstone birth rings to healing crystals, this is one of the best gifts that an individual can ever give to themselves. 
• Whether you are drawn to the timeless elegance of pearl, the delicacy of moonstone or amazed by the rare illusion of alexandrite, all three gemstones perfectly celebrate the warmth and sunshine of June. The right selection requires careful self-realisation, identification of purpose, comfort, budget, and a trustworthy seller. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the birthstone for June?

Not one, but three. Yes, the month of June brings the vibrance of three mystical birthstones: pearl, alexandrite and moonstone. While pearl and moonstone are considered the traditional June birthstones, the colour-changing beauty of alexandrite makes it the modern birthstone for June. 

What is the traditional birthstone for June?

Pearl and moonstone are considered the traditional June birthstones owing to their rich historical background, cultural significance,  and mineral traits, according to the Gemological Institute of America. 

What colour is the June birthstone?

The month of June is blessed with the serenity of multiple colours and shades of its three birthstones. From soft pearly white hues, the alluring optical illusion of alexandrite, to the soft radiance of moonstone, June is the most colourful gemstone month. 

What is the rarest June birthstone?

Alexandrite is the rarest and most expensive June birthstone because of its scarce availability and unique colour illusion of green and red. 

What does the June birthstone mean?

June birthstone simply defines the particular gemstones that resemble the spirit, personality, and intuition of individuals born in this month. However, there is no geological restriction; rather, cultural and historical significance defines a particular gemstone for any month.

Is alexandrite expensive?

Yes, alexandrite is one of the most expensive gemstones in the history of mankind. It is unique and rare,  and can cost up to several thousand dollars for a single carat.

What is the June birthstone for Gemini?

Yes, all three June birthstones are the perfect gemstones for Gemini. Their lunar energies and beauty foster positivity, growth, and confidence for individuals with the Gemini sign.

Is pearl a real birthstone?

Without a doubt, born from the depths of oceans, pearls are the most delicate, small birthstone that is known for its rich cultural history and celestial synergies.