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What Is the Birthstone for June?
Pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone are the official birthstones for June. Unlike most months with a single traditional birthstone, June offers three options that vary in appearance, rarity, and value. Pearls are the traditional June birthstone, while alexandrite and moonstone represent modern alternatives. This exceptional variety gives those born in June the flexibility to select a birthstone that matches their personal style, preferences, and budget.
Pearl Birthstone
History & Meaning
Ancient Greek civilizations believed pearls were teardrops from heaven, while Chinese folklore attributed their formation to the brain of a dragon. During the Byzantine Empire, only emperors were permitted to wear these precious birthstones.
The meaning of pearls centers on purity, integrity, and wisdom. According to ancient Vedic scriptures, pearls bestowed long life and prosperity. In the 19th century, Arab physicians used pearl powder medicinally to improve eyesight, calm nervous conditions, and aid digestion. Eastern cultures historically believed pearls could alleviate indigestion and hemorrhages. Throughout modern times, pearls have become traditional gifts for brides, symbolizing purity and new beginnings.
Color
Pearls occur naturally in various colors beyond the classic white, including black, cream, gold, blue, pink, and even purple. The traditional white pearl displays a soft, glowing luster with subtle overtones that may appear pink, silver, or cream. What makes pearls distinctive is their characteristic luster — the way light reflects off the surface. High-quality pearls exhibit a sharp, mirror-like reflection and deep luster that seems to glow from within.
Durability
Pearls are a comparatively soft birthstone, ranking 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs Scale of hardness, and require special care. Their softness makes them vulnerable to scratching and damage from chemicals or harsh conditions.
Origin
Brilliant Earth's cultured pearls are sourced from Australia, French Polynesia, China, or Japan. Though we don't offer them, saltwater pearls are grown in many different areas around the world, including in the Persian Gulf and off the coasts of the Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia. Small quantities of pearls are also found off the coasts of Mexico, Venezuela, and Central America.
Care & Maintenance
Due to their relative softness, pearls require special care. Store them separately from other gemstones and jewelry to prevent scratching, and never within a plastic bag. Plastic can emit a chemical that will damage the pearl's surface. Always apply perfume, hair products, and other cosmetics before putting on your pearl jewelry. Clean pearls with a soft, damp cloth, ideally after each time the pearls are worn.
Alexandrite Birthstone
History & Meaning
Alexandrite was initially mistaken for an emerald when discovered in a mine in the Russian Ural Mountains during the 1800s — until the discoverer realized that it changed colors under different light sources.
Considered a stone of good luck and intellect, alexandrite's remarkable color-changing property symbolizes transformation and adaptability. The shifting colors from green in daylight to red under incandescent light represent balance in life and the ability to navigate change gracefully.
Color
Alexandrite is renowned for its extraordinary color-changing phenomenon, shifting from bluish-green in daylight to purplish-red under incandescent light. Fine alexandrite displays a complete color change with vivid hues in both lighting conditions. This color change is due to the presence of chromium in its crystal structure.
Durability
Alexandrite is quite durable, ranking 8.5 on the Mohs scale. Its excellent toughness and lack of cleavage make it well-suited for daily wear in rings and other jewelry subjected to regular impact.
Origin
Natural alexandrite is commonly sourced in very scarce quantities from Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa. While natural alexandrite is rare, lab alexandrite, which we carry, offers the same look as its natural counterpart at a more accessible price point.
Care & Maintenance
Though alexandrite is durable, proper care ensures its longevity. Because of its strength, it is best to clean alexandrite in warm, soapy water, though ultrasonic and steam cleaners are usually safe as well.
Moonstone Birthstone
History & Meaning
Moonstone has strong associations with celestial powers across cultures. In Hindu mythology, moonstone was believed to be made of solidified moonbeams. In ancient Rome and Greece, moonstone was associated with lunar deities and even used as a compass by Greek sailors.
Moonstone symbolizes love, passion, fertility, and luck. Its gentle glow is thought to soothe emotional instability, enhance intuition, and promote peaceful sleep. Many believe moonstone brings protection to travelers, particularly those journeying by night or water.
Color
Moonstone is best known for its adularescence — the light that appears to flow across the birthstone, resembling moonlight floating on water. The finest moonstones show a blue sheen against a colorless background. This characteristic floating blue-white sheen results from light scattering between microscopic layers within the stone's structure.
Durability
With a rating of 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, moonstone is more durable than pearls but should still be carefully handled.
Origin
Moonstone is commonly found in certain parts of the Southern United States, including New Mexico, North Carolina, and Virginia. Internationally, moonstone is sourced from Brazil, Tanzania, Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.
Care & Maintenance
Although harder than pearl, moonstone still requires careful handling. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should not be used on moonstone as it may crack when exposed to high heat. Instead, clean moonstone with warm, soapy water using a soft brush.
*Brilliant Earth does not carry Moonstone.
June Birthstone FAQ
Why does June have three birthstones?
The evolution of birthstones has led to some months having multiple options based on the gemstone's unique properties or meanings, with June being unique in having three. This variety allows for more choices and interpretations based on personal preferences, style, and beliefs.
What is the traditional June birthstone?
Pearl is the traditional birthstone associated with June.
