Ah, June. The month that officially ushers in summer and warmer (or hot) weather. With the change of seasons come green lawns, cool dips in the pool, and vacations. And those with birthdays throughout the month are blessed with not one but two June birthstones. Here’s what you need to know about these prized birthstones, their history, their care, and gift ideas for June birthstone jewelry.
What's June's birthstone called?
Pearls radiate a cool, summertime — or anytime — iridescence, while the alexandrite gemstone shimmers with blue-green to red-pink tones.
Elegant and classic, pearls have captivated hearts for centuries. In nature, pearls are formed inside living mollusks, each one a unique creation. This organic origin imbues them with a subtle luster and soft iridescence that sets them apart.
Whereas pearls are all about softness and luster, alexandrite exhibits an otherworldly, color-changing phenomenon, appearing emerald green in daylight and transforming to shades of red, purple or raspberry under incandescent light. This “alexandrite effect” makes it a mesmerizing gem, perfect for June birthstone jewelry.
The timeless beauty of pearl: June’s classic birthstone
Here are a few considerations when selecting pearl June birthstone jewelry and ways to care for these stones so they last a lifetime:
Color & luster
Pearls come in a variety of natural colors, from classic white to pink, black, and even peach. Luster is key; look for pearl jewelry with a vibrant, even glow.
How to clean pearls
Pearls are delicate. Steer clear of harsh chemicals, store them in a soft cloth pouch, and wipe them gently with a damp cloth after wearing.
How do you tell if a pearl is real?
Freshwater cultured pearls signify manmade origins. This type of pearl is not only readily available, but it offers excellent value. Akoya pearls are known for their high luster, while Tahitian pearls offer a unique, exotic flair. Real pearls often have slight imperfections and irregularities, and they’re slightly heavier, while manmade pearls have a more uniform, flawless appearance.
Alexandrite: The enigmatic color-changer
Alexandrite gets its moniker from Prince Alexander of Russia, under whose reign the alexandrite stone was discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains. Lab created alexandrite birthstones, however, offer a more attainable alternative to the otherwise rare natural gems. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to selecting alexandrite birthstone jewelry for yourself or someone you treasure:
Why does alexandrite change color?
Alexandrite changes color due to its unique chemical composition, which allows it to absorb different wavelengths of light under varying lighting conditions, making it appear greenish in daylight and reddish under incandescent light.
What makes natural alexandrite so rare & valuable?
Alexandrite is extremely rare, with high-quality gemstones being particularly scarce, making it one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. Lab created alexandrite stones are much more affordable and accessible.
How to clean alexandrite
To clean alexandrite jewelry, gently wipe it with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water, avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners that could damage the stone.
The best June birthstone jewelry gifts for loved ones
Here are a few gift ideas to get you started, whether you’re looking for a pearl birthstone necklace or you want the ethereal aesthetic of alexandrite.
- Commemorate a June anniversary with a pair of alexandrite cushion-cut earrings surrounded by glittering white sapphires.
- Select a boxed set of freshwater cultured pearl jewelry, perfect for a recent high school graduate heading off to college in the fall. A necklace coupled with pearl birthstone earrings and a bracelet will set them up for timeless style.
- Treat yourself to a show-stopping June birthstone ring consisting of a large, green emerald-cut alexandrite center stone surrounded by lab grown diamonds.
- Select black Tahitian pearl drop earrings for a unique June birthday gift. Pair with a pendant necklace for maximum impact.
- Delight the senses of a friend celebrating the big 4-0 by wrapping up an exquisite June birthstone bracelet featuring white sapphires accented by an alexandrite stone.
Whether you're drawn to the timeless elegance of pearls or the captivating magic of alexandrite, June's birthstones offer something special for everyone. Helzberg offers birthstone pieces for every month and every occasion, along with personalized jewelry for one-of-a-kind birthday gifts. Shop online or in stores!
