Birthstones / June
June: Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone
Traditional: Pearl, Moonstone · White, cream, pink, grey (pearl); green to red (alexandrite); white with blue sheen (moonstone) · Mohs 2.5 to 4.5 (pearl); 8.5 (alexandrite); 6 to 6.5 (moonstone)
What it is
Three stones. Pearl: nacre from a mollusk, nearly all cultured (freshwater or saltwater), the softest of all birthstones. Alexandrite: color-change chrysoberyl, rare and costly when natural, common and affordable when lab-grown. Moonstone: feldspar with a floating sheen.
In the glossary: Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone.
Care
Pearls: wipe after wearing, never soak, keep from perfume and acids. Alexandrite: anything. Moonstone: soap and water, avoid knocks (it cleaves).
Before you buy
Freshwater pearls are the value; Akoya for the brightest luster. 'Alexandrite' under a few hundred dollars is lab-grown or a color-change simulant and should say so.
June pieces on the site
All birthstone pieces →Listings that name the month or its stone; whether the stone is natural, lab-grown or simulated is on each product page as the maker states it.
Sources: Jewelers of America modern birthstone list; GIA gem encyclopedia; FTC Jewelry Guides on treatment and lab-growth disclosure. Clasp & Lens does not appraise or grade stones; what a listing says is the supplier's statement.