Alexandrite: How to Choose the Best June Birthstone
June is one of the rare months that offers not just one, but three official birthstones: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. Each of these gems brings its own charm, meaning, and aesthetic, catering to a wide range of styles and personalities. Among them, alexandrite is often considered the most unique, thanks to its extraordinary ability to change color depending on the light source. This article will explore what makes alexandrite so rare and captivating, how it compares to other June birthstones, and how to choose and care for this modern gemstone.
What Birthstones Are Associated With June?
Unlike most months that have a single traditional birthstone, June is associated with three: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. This variety reflects different cultures and eras—pearls have long been associated with purity and elegance, moonstones with lunar energy and intuition, while alexandrite represents rarity and transformation.
How Does Alexandrite Compare to Pearl and Moonstone?
Pearls are the traditional June birthstone, formed inside oysters and mussels. They have been revered for centuries across civilizations and are symbols of purity, integrity, and wisdom. They occur in a range of natural colors, such as white, black, pink, and gold, and are known for their soft, luminous luster. However, with a hardness of just 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs scale, pearls are delicate and require special care.
Moonstone is another modern alternative. It is treasured for its adularescence—a glow that appears to move across the surface, much like moonlight reflecting on water. With a hardness of 6 to 6.5, it is moderately durable and often used in bohemian and spiritual jewelry designs.
Alexandrite, by contrast, is one of the rarest gemstones known, discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in the 1830s. It is valued not just for its scarcity but for its ability to shift from green or teal in daylight to red or purplish hues under incandescent light. This unique feature has earned it the nickname “emerald by day, ruby by night.” With a Mohs hardness of 8.5, alexandrite is also highly durable and suitable for daily wear.
What Makes Alexandrite the Ideal June Birthstone?
While pearls and moonstones hold beauty and symbolism, alexandrite captures the imagination. Its color-changing effect mirrors adaptability, duality, and transformation—qualities that resonate with the energy of those born in June. Alexandrite is often associated with good fortune, balance, and personal growth. As a gem discovered in the 19th century, it stands out as a more contemporary choice compared to ancient gems like diamonds or rubies.
For those who value individuality and rarity, alexandrite is an exceptional expression of uniqueness. It appeals to gem collectors, jewelry lovers, and anyone seeking a stone that feels both personal and extraordinary.
What Is Alexandrite?
Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Its distinctiveness lies in its ability to change color due to the presence of chromium ions in its crystal structure. In daylight or fluorescent light, alexandrite appears green or bluish-green, while under incandescent or candlelight, it shifts to purplish-red or raspberry tones.
Why Is Alexandrite So Rare and Valuable?
Natural alexandrite forms under very specific geological conditions. Chromium must be present during crystal growth, which is rare in most chrysoberyl-forming environments. Initially discovered in Russia, it was named after Alexander II, the future tsar, as it exhibited both red and green colors of imperial Russia.
Today, natural alexandrite is mined in minimal quantities in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa. High-quality natural specimens over one carat are extremely rare and can command thousands of dollars per carat. The scarcity of the gem, combined with its mesmerizing optical properties, makes it one of the most prized gemstones in the world.
How Does Alexandrite Change Color?
The color-changing phenomenon, known as pleochroism, is due to alexandrite's ability to absorb light differently under various lighting conditions. It has a refractive index between 1.746 and 1.755, which contributes to its brilliance and optical clarity.
In daylight, the gem reflects green or teal wavelengths, while incandescent light enhances the red tones. The shift is most dramatic in stones that are well cut and have minimal inclusions. This dynamic feature sets alexandrite apart from nearly every other gem on Earth.
How to Choose an Alexandrite?
When selecting an alexandrite gemstone, several factors contribute to its quality, beauty, and value. Understanding these elements helps ensure you find a stone that meets your expectations and suits your preferences.
Color
The hallmark of alexandrite is its ability to change color. Look for stones with a vivid shift from green in daylight to red or purplish-red in incandescent light. The more dramatic and complete the transition, the more desirable the stone.
Shape
Alexandrite can be cut into various shapes, including round, oval, cushion, and emerald. The chosen shape should complement the jewelry setting and maximize the visual impact of the color change.
Cut
An expertly cut alexandrite enhances brilliance and highlights the pleochroic effect. Poor cutting can result in dullness or reduced light reflection, diminishing the color contrast.
Clarity
Clean stones with minimal inclusions are more valuable. Inclusions may interfere with the transmission of light and reduce the stone’s sparkle and color clarity.
Carat Weight and Size
Natural alexandrite stones above one carat are extremely rare. Larger stones with strong color shifts are especially sought after. Lab-grown alexandrites offer a more affordable alternative for those seeking bigger sizes.
Price
The cost of alexandrite varies significantly depending on its color change, clarity, origin, and whether it is natural or lab-grown. Natural stones from Russia or Brazil with strong shifts and clean appearance are at the top of the price spectrum.
Treatment
Most high-quality natural alexandrite is untreated. However, some lower-grade stones may be heat-treated or enhanced to improve appearance. Always ask for documentation.
Type and Origin
Natural alexandrite is rare and forms under geological conditions that are difficult to replicate. Lab-grown versions are made using the same chemical composition and physical process, providing an affordable and sustainable alternative. Russia, Brazil, and Sri Lanka remain the most notable natural sources, each producing stones with slight variations in hue and saturation.
How Should You Clean and Care for Alexandrite Jewelry?
Although alexandrite is a durable gemstone, proper care is essential to preserve its beauty and structure over time.
Cleaning
To maintain the beauty and brilliance of alexandrite jewelry, it is recommended to clean the gemstone with mild soap and warm water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth.
Avoid Harmful Conditions
It’s best to avoid exposing alexandrite to harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or high temperatures, as these can damage the gem's color and structure. While it is hard and scratch-resistant, extreme conditions can still affect its clarity or luster.
Storage
Store alexandrite jewelry separately from other gemstones in a soft pouch or a padded jewelry box. This prevents abrasion and helps maintain surface integrity.
Handling
Always apply lotions, perfumes, or hair products before wearing your alexandrite jewelry to avoid residue buildup. Regular cleaning and thoughtful storage will help ensure your piece remains brilliant for generations.
Conclusion
Of the three birthstones associated with June, alexandrite stands alone in terms of visual intrigue, rarity, and meaning. Its magical color-changing ability, paired with a rich history and symbolic associations with balance and transformation, makes it an ideal gem for those who want something extraordinary. First discovered in the 19th century, alexandrite may be modern in origin, but it has quickly become one of the most coveted gemstones in fine jewelry. Whether you are celebrating a June birthday or simply drawn to its unique character, alexandrite is more than a gemstone—it’s a story of change, light, and elegance.