June is one of the few months blessed with not one, but three birthstones—Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone. Each of these gems offers a unique look, history, and metaphysical significance. However, their beauty also comes with specific care needs. Whether you’re wearing a classic strand of pearls, a color-changing alexandrite ring, or an iridescent moonstone pendant, knowing how to properly care for your June birthstones will help preserve their brilliance for years to come.
Pearl: Timeless and Delicate
Characteristics
Pearls are organic gemstones formed inside mollusks, known for their soft glow and timeless elegance. Unlike most gemstones, pearls are not cut or faceted—they are valued for their shape, luster, and surface quality.
Care Tips
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Pearls are extremely sensitive to acids, cosmetics, hairsprays, and perfumes. Always put pearls on after applying beauty products.
- Clean Gently: Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe pearls after wearing. Never submerge in water or use ultrasonic cleaners.
- Store Properly: Store pearls separately in a soft cloth or pouch to avoid scratching from other jewelry. They should never be stored in airtight containers, as pearls need moisture.
- Wear Them Often: Pearls benefit from your skin’s natural oils, which help maintain their luster.
Alexandrite: Rare and Enchanting
Characteristics
Alexandrite is famous for its ability to change color—greenish in daylight and reddish-purple under incandescent light. It’s a rare and valuable variety of chrysoberyl, prized for its dramatic color shift and durability.
Care Tips
- Durability: Alexandrite ranks 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively hard and suitable for daily wear with minimal risk of scratching.
- Cleaning: Clean alexandrite with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe unless the stone has inclusions or fractures.
- Storage: Store alexandrite jewelry in a separate compartment or soft pouch to avoid contact with harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires.
Moonstone: Mystical and Moody
Characteristics
Moonstone is admired for its ethereal glow, known as adularescence—a soft sheen that seems to move across the gem’s surface. It belongs to the feldspar group and comes in various colors, with rainbow moonstone being especially popular.
Care Tips
- Softness Warning: With a Mohs hardness of 6–6.5, moonstone is more prone to scratching and chipping. It’s best worn in earrings or pendants rather than rings.
- Avoid Impact: Do not expose moonstone to rough handling or sports activities.
- Cleaning: Use lukewarm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth. Avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners.
- Storage: Wrap moonstone jewelry in soft cloth and store separately to prevent scratches from other harder stones.
General Tips for All June Birthstones
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Rapid changes in temperature can cause some gemstones to crack.
- Regular Checks: If your stones are set in rings or intricate jewelry, periodically check for loose settings or prongs.
- Professional Cleaning: Once or twice a year, have your jewelry cleaned and inspected by a professional jeweler.
Conclusion
June birthstones—Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone—offer a trio of elegance, mystery, and natural beauty. Each stone is unique in its structure and requires specialized care. By understanding and honoring their delicate qualities, you can enjoy the luminous charm of your June birthstones for generations to come. Whether you’re a June baby or simply love these enchanting gems, proper care will ensure their beauty never fades.
