June Birthstones Explained: Pearl, Alexandrite & Moonstone (Guide 2026)

If you are born in June, then congratulations have not only a single birthstone but three different colored stones to wear in jewelry. First is a Pearl, second is Alexandrite, and third is Moonstone. Each gemstone is different from the other.

So, you may ask yourself: is wearing a pearl necklace good, does an Alexandrite gemstone ring bring luck, or can Moonstone earrings do something?

This guide will explain everything.

Why Does June Have Three Birthstones?

In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers in the USA announced the modern birthstones chart, where the Pearl was the original June stone. While Moonstone was added in 1967. Then, Alexandrite was added later as it became more widely available outside of Russia.

In India, all three have their own significance too. Pearl has deep roots in Vedic astrology, Moonstone is used as a Pearl substitute, and Alexandrite has been picking up steam among collectors and astrology enthusiasts over the last decade.

Quick Comparison: Which June Birthstone Is Right for You?

Before buying any of the June birthstones, consider these differences:

June Birthstone: Pearl, Alexandrite and Moonstone

Understand what a June stone overview looks like in jewelry, what is mean, its costs, and jewelry cleaning tips.

1. Pearl - A Famous Stone for June

Pearl is different from every other gemstone on this list and different from most gemstones in general, like July’s Ruby.

So, where does it come from? The original pearl gemstone comes from inside an oyster or a mussel.

There’s such a process. When a tiny piece of sand or shell gets inside the oyster, the animal coats it in layers of a material called nacre. That build-up, over months or years, becomes a pearl.

If you’re looking for natural pearls, it's very rare because forming such a quality without any human involvement does not happen.

Almost everything you see in jewelry stores today is a cultured pearl, which means a tiny bead was placed inside the oyster to start the process. The oyster still does all the real work. It is still a real pearl. Just farmed, not wild. You can purchase it for classic-style jewelry.

What does Pearl mean?

In Vedic astrology, Pearl is connected to the Moon. It is called Moti in Hindi. Wearing a pearl is said to help with mental stress, mood swings, and emotional stability. Many astrologers recommend it for people whose Moon is weak in their birth chart. This methodology works for Indian people.

In Western tradition, Pearls are linked to purity, loyalty, and long-lasting relationships. They have been a wedding and anniversary staple for generations. There is something about a pearl that feels genuinely beautiful, not just trendy.

What does a Pearl look like?

There are six hues for pearl stones, like white, cream, pink, silver, gold, and even deep black. People notice the most is the shine that lasts. A good pearl looks like light is coming from inside it, not just sitting on top.

Coming to the shape, round pearls are the most common and famous in necklaces, pendants and stud earrings. Need a fancy shape like oval, drop, or irregular shape? It’s also available.

You can get baroque pearls, as they have become the first choice in the last few years because of their organic and uneven look.

How much does a Pearl cost in jewelry?

The range starts from $30 and can reach $500+. For example, freshwater pearl jewelry costs around $30 to $150. While an akoya pearl necklace remains between $200 and $1,000+. For South Sea and Tahitian pearls yo can spend $500 to several thousand dollars for quality.

The price depends on size, shape, luster, surface quality, and type. A flawless, round, high-luster pearl costs significantly more than one with spots or an irregular shape.

2. Alexandrite - Best June Gemstone

Apart from the Pearl gemstone, Alexandrite is genuinely one of the most unusual gemstones that exists. The reason people are obsessed with it is due to its changing colors.

In daylight, it looks green or teal. Under a lamp or candlelight, the same stone turns red or raspberry purple. Same stone, completely different color depending on the light. This happens because of the way the stone absorbs and reflects light.

It’s a dream of many people to wear fancy colored stones in their jewelry, and this June birthstone fulfills their wishes. From gifting a 2 carat alexandrite promise ring to a wedding pendant in white gold, everything is possible.

What does Alexandrite mean?

Alexandrite is usually associated with change, balance, and good fortune. The idea behind it is that a stone that can look like two completely different things depending on the light represents adaptability. That can be seen in the same situation from different angles.

What does an Alexandrite look like?

Basically, a strong alexandrite will show a clear, obvious shift between green and red. That means its genuine birthstone of the sixth month of the calendar, and you can buy it.

On the other hand, weak alexandrite stones are muddy brownish with no striking look.

Whether buying this gemstone for a bracelet or a pendant necklace, consider the quality of the color change, which matters more than anything else.

A stone that shifts from a vivid green to a deep red is much more valuable than one with a subtle or murky change.

How much does Alexandrite cost?

Natural Alexandrite costs start from $5,000 to $15,000. This is one of the most expensive gemstones in the world, right up there with ruby, emerald, and sapphire. For a fine natural alexandrite from Russia, you have to pay $20,000+ per carat.

You think I have only a $300 budget for buying alexandrite birthstone jewelry? What’s the option for me? Yes, there’s an option. Lab-created alexandrite is available from $50 to $500 depending on size. This stone has the same chemical makeup as the natural stone. The only difference is where it was made.

If you want the color change effect without the natural stone price tag, lab alexandrite is a completely reasonable choice. Just make sure the seller is upfront about it being lab-created.

3. Moonstone - Versatile Colored June Gemstone

The third birthstone for June is Moonstone. This stone is famous due to its optical effect called adularescence, a soft, silvery or blue glow that seems to float just under the surface of the stone when you move it.

That means it can look precious when worn on the finger, around the neck, in the ears, and on the wrist in different types of jewelry styles.

You may ask what the most valuable variety comes from? It’s a blue moonstone from Sri Lanka, where the floating light appears electric blue against a colorless or slightly grey body. Moonstone comes mainly from Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Brazil.

For a rainbow moonstone, you can experience flashes of multiple colors that can be versatile as a premium gemstone.

What does Moonstone mean?

Moonstone has been tied to the Moon in almost every culture that has encountered it. In ancient Rome, people believed it was made from frozen moonlight. In India, it is called Chandrakant Mani, literally "Moon's beloved gem."

In Vedic astrology, Moonstone is used as a substitute for Pearl. Both are connected to the Moon planet, so when someone cannot afford or find a quality Pearl, Moonstone is recommended instead. It is believed to help with emotional balance, intuition, and clarity of thought.

In the USA and Europe, Moonstone has had a big moment in the last decade. It became popular in boho jewelry and has stayed popular because of its genuinely unusual, dreamy look.

What does June moonstone look like?

The body of a moonstone can be white, grey, peach, green, or nearly transparent. What you are really looking at is that inner glow. The strongest moonstones have a bright, centered blue flash. You can purchase a purity ring, wedding band, or a pendant necklace in white gold.

Lower quality ones have a white or cloudy glow. Avoid purchasing for a unique jeweler-wearing experience. Ask the jeweler to offer a high-quality stone.

How much does Moonstone cost?

Moonstone is much more affordable than Alexandrite, and more accessible than high-end Pearl, starting from $25. For example, sterling silver moonstone jewelry is available from $25 to $200. To get a quality moonstone ring in gold, pay around $200 to $800. With fine jewelry and a strong blue moonstone, the cost can be $500 to $2,000+.

How to Take Care of Every June Birthstone?

We recommend to prefer a professional jewelry cleaning, as they are aware of every characteristic of the stones. Otherwise, here are tips to keep your pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone jewelry as it is:

1. Pearls can be easily damaged.

Pearls are soft. On the Mohs hardness scale, they sit between 2.5 and 4.5. That means they scratch easily and can be damaged by chemicals.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Put pearl jewelry on after you have applied perfume, lotion, and hairspray.

• Wipe them gently with a soft, damp cloth after wearing.

• Store them in a cloth pouch, away from metal jewelry that can scratch the surface.

• Never put pearls in an ultrasonic cleaner.

Ultimately, taking care of pearls requires more attention.

2. Alexandrite is tough enough, yet it needs care.

Alexandrite is hard; it is 8.5 on the Mohs scale. It is very durable and good for daily wear. It does not need any special handling, though you should still store it away from diamonds (10 on the Mohs scale), which can scratch it. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush.

3. Moonstone

Moonstone scores 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. It can chip or crack if you knock it hard.

• Take off moonstone rings before doing dishes, gardening, or any heavy work.

• Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap, nothing abrasive.

• Do not expose it to harsh chemicals or extreme heat.

• Store it separately so it does not get scratched by harder stones.

Following these tips can make your newly purchased June gemstone jewelry look new.

So, Which One Should You Actually Get?

Depends on your priorities. Everyday wearing jewelry, pearl is the right choice. For gifting jewelry to anyone they will never forget, Alexandrite is the option. While, Moonstone can be a good one for modern people, as it looks completely meaningful in both Indian and Western traditions. You can find great quality at a reasonable price.

All three are legitimate June birthstones. There is no wrong choice. It really comes down to what you like, what it means to you, and what you want to spend.

Buy June Birthstone Jewelry with Alyce Jewels: Purity and Quality Guaranteed

Alyce Jewels promises to give various types of ruby jewelry as per your choice, from a purity ring to a pendant and necklaces to a tennis bracelet. Here is what we are dedicated to:

• Premium Quality: Our gemstones are officially certified, and we also double-check them.

• Worldwide Shipping: From Dubai to the USA and UK to China, Alyce Jewels ships birthstone jewelry at no cost and with security everywhere.

• 30-day Exchange or Return: Alyce Jewels allows its buyers to easily request an exchange or return for unsatisfactory quality they experience.

• Transparent Pricing: We believe you have the right to pay only what you get, not for what you can’t. Our jewelry pricing based on trust.

• Ethical Craftsmanship: Whether you buy natural or lab-grown jewelry, we ensure that it maintains craftsmanship standards.

• Custom Design: Have any idea to design a personalized piece of jewelry? Ask us to make it, and we deliver it to you.

Buy Gemstone Jewelry from Alyce Jewels.

Meet our jewelry expert today and get your best piece.

FAQs

1. Which June birthstone is best to buy for jewelry?

Alexandrite suits durable everyday jewelry, pearls offer timeless elegance, while moonstone is ideal for buyers who prefer a soft, luminous gemstone appearance.

2. Which June birthstone is best for an engagement ring?

Alexandrite is generally best for engagement rings because its 8.5 Mohs hardness, rarity, and color-changing appearance suit meaningful, frequently worn jewelry.

3. Is June birthstone jewelry a good birthday gift?

Yes. June birthstone jewelry creates a personal birthday gift by connecting pearl, alexandrite, or moonstone with the recipient's birth month and style.

4. How do I choose between pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone jewelry?

Choose pearl for classic elegance, alexandrite for rarity and color change, or moonstone for a dreamy glow and distinctive modern jewelry appearance.

5. Is alexandrite more expensive than pearl and moonstone?

Fine natural alexandrite can cost more than many pearls and moonstones because high-quality stones with strong color change are exceptionally rare and valuable.

6. What should I check before buying June birthstone jewelry?

Check gemstone authenticity, treatments, quality, metal, setting, seller reputation, return policy, and gemological documentation when purchasing expensive June birthstone jewelry.

7. Which June birthstone is best for everyday wear?

Alexandrite is generally best for everyday wear due to its 8.5 Mohs hardness, offering greater scratch resistance than softer pearls and moonstones.

8. Should I buy a June birthstone ring, pendant, bracelet, or earrings?

Choose rings for personal significance, pendants or earrings for versatile gifting, and bracelets for modern styling based on the wearer's lifestyle and preferences.

9. Is personalized June birthstone jewelry worth buying?

Yes. Personalized June birthstone jewelry combines a meaningful gemstone with names, initials, or dates, creating a more personal gift for memorable occasions.

10. Where should I buy June birthstone jewelry?

Alyce Jewels is the right jewelry seller to get June birthstone jewelry, offering clear gemstone details, treatment disclosures, transparent pricing, secure returns, and reliable gemological documentation.