Actually, there are two June birthstones, although the pearl is the more popular of the two. The other birthstone is Alexandrite, which is a very rare and beautiful gemstone that changes its color according to the light. Compared to the pearl, Alexandrite is a relatively modern gem, as it was first discovered in Russia in the 1830s. As you might have guessed, it takes its name from the Russian Czar at that time, Czar Alexander II. Read more about alexandrite.

 

Loose Alexandrite Gemstones

Loose Alexandrite Gemstones

 

The pearl, on the other hand, has a long history, as it has been used for centuries and was a favorite gem of the Roman Empire. The pearl is unique because it is the only gem that comes from a living sea creature and that requires no faceting or polishing. Their lustrous beauty comes with a caveat; pearls can be damaged by cleaning products or lotions, and need to be stored in an environment that isn’t too dry. A pearl contains 10-20% water and can crack if it dries out. A delicate, rare beauty, the pearl. Read more about pearls.

 

Loose Pearls

Loose Pearls

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