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June brings long, sun-filled days, the early warmth of summer, and the captivating magic of alexandrite. Known as one of the official birthstones for June, alexandrite enchants collectors and jewellers alike with its colour-changing ability, rarity, and connection to balance and transformation. Alongside pearl and moonstone, alexandrite completes June’s trio of birthstones, offering a nice range of beauty, symbolism, and energy.
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Why Alexandrite is one of June’s Birthstone
Unlike many other birthstones, alexandrite has no direct connection to the biblical breastplate or ancient traditions. Instead it’s the most modern addition to June’s birthstone options, adding a rare and distinctive stone to the month’s more traditional pearl and moonstone.
Its rarity, dramatic colour change, and interesting history have made alexandrite a signature gemstone for June birthdays, celebrated by collectors and jewellers alike.
🔗 Explore the History of Birthstones to learn more about this timeless tradition
History and Lore of Alexandrite
Alexandrite was discovered in the 1830s in Russia’s Ural Mountains, where miners initially mistook it for a ruby, only to see it transform to green in daylight. This extraordinary colour-shifting ability earned it the name alexandrite, in honour of the future Tsar Alexander II. Its red and green hues also mirrored the colours of Imperial Russia’s military, making it an instant favourite among royalty.
Over time, alexandrite became more than just a jewel of prestige. Its rare and magical colour change inspired associations with balance, duality, and transformation. In Russian folklore, it was believed to bring good fortune, emotional stability, and even guidance in moral decisions.
Later, during World War II, alexandrite gained a bittersweet reputation as the “widow’s stone,” symbolising hope and loss for soldiers’ loved ones.
Today, alexandrite is celebrated for its mystical qualities, royal heritage, and timeless elegance. Its captivating ability to shift from emerald by day to ruby by night continues to make it one of the rarest and most enchanting gemstones in the world.
🔗 Dive deeper into Alexandrite Myths and Legends
Alexandrite’s Meaning, Symbolism, and Energy
Alexandrite embodies change, balance, and insight. Its unique colour shift mirrors life’s transitions, making it a perfect companion for June birthdays. The stone is said to encourage emotional harmony, strengthen intuition, and support personal growth.
In crystal healing, alexandrite is believed to align the heart and third eye chakras, foster mental clarity, and helping to support someone navigate complex emotions.
Whether worn as jewellery or kept as a personal talisman, alexandrite inspires adaptability and thoughtful action.
🔗 Discover the Symbolic and Spiritual Meanings of Alexandrite Crystals
Shades, Varieties, and Buying Tips
Alexandrite is celebrated for its dramatic colour change, but not all alexandrites are equal. Stones can vary from bluish-green in daylight to purplish-red under incandescent light (light that comes from a heat source, such as a candle or old style light bulb), with the colour-change intensity and stone’s clarity affecting value.
The most prized alexandrites display a strong, distinct colour change with vibrant tones.
When buying alexandrite, consider colour change, clarity, and carat size. Natural alexandrite is rare and expensive, so always buy from reputable sellers. Synthetic alexandrite exists and is quite common, so it can be a more affordable alternative, but natural stones carry unmatched prestige and collectibility.
Alexandrite is relatively durable, though it should still be treated with care. Avoid harsh chemicals, and use a soft cloth with warm, soapy water for gentle cleaning.
🔗 Working with alexandrite gemstones? Read A Jewellers’ Guide to Alexandrite
Fun Facts About Alexandrite
- Alexandrite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, with fine stones from Russia highly sought after.
- Alexandrite’s colour-changing effect is due to its unique chromium content, making it one of the most fascinating gems scientifically and visually.
- Today, sources include Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa, providing collectors with slightly more access to this rare beauty.
June’s Other Birthstones
June is rare among birthstone months in that it actually has three stones, each with its own charm and personality. Alongside alexandrite, which dazzles with its colour-changing magic, June also celebrates pearl and moonstone.
Pearl is treasured for its luminous, gentle glow and timeless elegance. Long associated with purity, wisdom, and serenity, pearls offer a classic, understated beauty that has graced jewellery for centuries.
Moonstone captivates with its soft shimmer and ethereal glow. Celebrated for its calming energy and connection to intuition, moonstone is a favourite among those drawn to gentle, reflective stones.
Together, alexandrite, pearl, and moonstone give June birthdays a diverse palette of beauty, allowing each wearer to find a birthstone that resonates with both their style and budget.
Alexandrite’s Enduring Place in June Birthstone Lore
Alexandrite shines as a gemstone of transformation, balance, and intuition. Its rare colour-changing magic, historical significance, and symbolic meaning make it the perfect companion for June birthdays. Whether you are a collector, jeweller, or simply captivated by extraordinary gemstones, alexandrite adds intrigue, elegance, and a touch of uniqueness to every piece.
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