December Birthstone: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon

If you were born in December, you have more than one birthstone to choose from. Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon are the three gemstones recognized by major gemological and jewelry-industry references, and each gives you a very different look and wearing experience. Turquoise brings an amazing blue-green color and centuries of history. Tanzanite is prized for its blue-violet color and the way its hues can shift as you view it from different directions. Zircon is the sparkler of the three, with strong brilliance and fire. So which December birthstone is right for you? That depends less on the color you love, how you plan to wear the jewelry, and how much care you're willing to give it. What Is the December Birthstone? December has three recognized birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Turquoise is the traditional December birthstone, while tanzanite and zircon are the alternative December birthstones.  That variety is what makes choosing a December birthstone interesting. You're not choosing between three versions of the same blue gemstone. You're choosing between an opaque blue-green stone, a transparent blue-violet gem, and a highly brilliant gemstone that comes in several colors.  December's birthstones also overlap with two zodiac signs, Sagittarius and Capricorn, both of which fall within the December month.  December birthstones at a glance Birthstone Typical December color Mohs hardness Appearance Best suited to Turquoise Blue to green 5–6 Opaque to semi-translucent, sometimes with matrix Pendants, earrings, statement jewelry, protected rings Tanzanite Blue to violet 6–7 Transparent, blue-violet, often pleochroic Earrings and pendants, occasional-wear rings Zircon Blue, plus many other colors 6–7.5 Transparent, brilliant, high fire Earrings, pendants, and carefully worn rings Turquoise: December's Classic Blue-Green Birthstone Turquoise is the December birthstone you can usually recognize without being told what you're looking at. Its color ranges from blue to green, and it is opaque or semi-translucent rather than transparent.  Some turquoise contains dark veins or patches called a matrix, which are remnants of the rock in which the turquoise formed. That is why two turquoise stones can have different patterns and colors. Turquoise Meaning and Symbolism Across different cultures and periods, turquoise has been associated with protection, good fortune, peace, and well-being. Its history stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of turquoise being used in ancient Egypt. The name itself comes from the French for "Turkish stone," a nod to the trade routes that first brought it to Europe rather than its place of origin.  That long history gives turquoise a character the other December birthstones don't quite share. If you prefer jewelry with an organic, natural look rather than a highly polished and uniform appearance, turquoise has a distinctive appeal. Is Turquoise Durable Enough for Everyday Jewelry? Turquoise has a Mohs hardness of about 5 to 6, so it is considerably softer than diamond and many gemstones commonly used in everyday jewelry. It can also be porous, which makes it more sensitive to chemicals, cosmetics, oils, perspiration, heat, and some treatments. That doesn't mean you can't wear turquoise regularly. It simply means the jewelry needs a little more care. A turquoise pendant or pair of earrings is generally easier to wear regularly because these pieces are less exposed to knocks and abrasion than rings.  Some turquoise is stabilized with resin to improve its durability and appearance. Though not all turquoise is treated this way, so if you're comparing stones, it's worth asking the jeweler whether the turquoise has been stabilized and what treatment it has received. Tanzanite: The Rare Blue-Violet December Birthstone Tanzanite looks completely different from turquoise. Instead of an opaque blue-green surface, it gives you a transparent blue-to-violet color with a quality called pleochroism. Pleochroism means the gemstone can show different colors when viewed from different directions. That's one reason tanzanite can appear more blue in one position and more violet in another. It is also one of the most geographically distinctive gemstones in the December birthstone trio. Tanzanite is found in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro, and the gemstone was discovered there in 1967. In fact, tanzanite is mined in this one location and nowhere else on Earth,  a rarity that leads many gemologists to consider it scarcer than diamond. Is tanzanite naturally blue? Rough tanzanite is commonly found in a brownish zoisite. Much of the tanzanite sold in the jewelry market is heat-treated to develop its familiar blue-violet color.  Heat treatment can sound alarming if you're unfamiliar with gemstone treatments, but treatment does not make a gemstone fake.  Tanzanite meaning Modern birthstone symbolism commonly associates tanzanite with transformation and new beginnings. Those associations fit the gemstone's story: a relatively recent discovery, a geographically limited source, and a color that can seem to move between blue and violet. If you're giving tanzanite as a birthday gift, that symbolism can make the stone feel particularly personal for someone entering a new chapter. Is tanzanite good for everyday wear? This is the area where tanzanite needs a little more attention. Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of roughly 6 to 7, but hardness is only a measure of resistance to scratching. GIA recommends tanzanite primarily for earrings and pendants because the stone can abrade easily and may be damaged by impact or sudden temperature changes.  Therefore, daily-wear tanzanite rings require considerably more caution. Though a tanzanite ring can still make sense for occasional wear, especially when the stone has a protective setting, and you take it off for activities that could expose it to hard knocks. Zircon: The Sparkling December Birthstone Zircon is the December birthstone that will please you if you love a sparkle. Natural zircon occurs in a wide range of colors, including blue, red, orange, yellow, brown, green, and colorless. Blue zircon is especially associated with December, while colorless zircon is known for its strong brilliance and fire. Its optical properties are what make it stand out. Zircon has a high refractive index, so a well-cut stone can produce lively flashes of light and noticeable fire. Is zircon a real gemstone? Yes. Zircon is a natural gemstone. It is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined and cut for jewelry. Sometimes its name creates confusion between zircon and cubic zirconia (CZ), but the two are entirely different materials. Zircon vs. cubic zirconia Natural Zircon Cubic Zirconia What is it? Natural gemstone Lab-created diamond simulant Origin Naturally formed and mined Manufactured Appearance High brilliance and fire Very brilliant, often used as a diamond alternative Chemical composition Zirconium silicate Zirconium dioxide December birthstone? Yes No Is zircon durable? Hardness of Zircon ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, but its wearability isn't determined by hardness alone. It can be prone to abrasion, particularly around facet edges, and some zircon can be brittle enough that hard knocks may cause damage. That makes zircon more versatile than tanzanite for many jewelry applications. Zircon meaning Traditionally, zircon is associated with wisdom, prosperity, and peace. For someone who wants the symbolism but also wants a gemstone with obvious visual sparkle, zircon can be an appealing choice. How Are the Three December Birthstones Different? The easiest way to understand the December birthstones is to stop thinking of them as three interchangeable blue gems. Turquoise is about color and character: Its blue-green surface is opaque, often with natural matrix, and it's known for its organic appearance and long history. Tanzanite is about color depth and movement: Its transparent blue-violet appearance and pleochroism are its identity. Zircon is about sparkle: Its brilliance and fire make it the obvious choice for someone who wants a December birthstone with a more traditional faceted-gemstone appearance. How to Choose the Right December Birthstone for You Instead of asking which December birthstone is "best," the better question you should ask is “which stone works best for the piece of jewelry you have in mind?” Choose turquoise if you want: Blue-green color natural gemstone  An opaque gemstone rather than a sparkly transparent one Historical depth and traditional symbolism A stone that looks distinctive even in a simple setting Choose tanzanite if you want: Blue-violet color gemstone A transparent gemstone with changing visual nuances A gemstone with a geographic origin A meaningful gift associated with transformation or a new beginning Choose zircon if you want: Higher brilliance and fire Blue color with faceted, sparkling appearance More color choices beyond blue How to Care for December Birthstone Jewelry Clean them gently with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid steam cleaners and ultrasonic cleaners, and keep the stone away from harsh chemicals, acids, excessive heat, cosmetics, and prolonged exposure to substances that can discolor or damage it. There is also a practical habit that matters: take gemstone jewelry off before activities where it can be knocked, scratched, exposed to chemicals, or subjected to unnecessary heat. Store pieces separately when possible, particularly faceted zircon gemstones that could scratch or abrade against other jewelry. December Birthstone Jewelry Makes a Personal Birthday Gift A birthstone gift becomes more thoughtful when you choose the stone that the person might love rather than simply choosing "the December stone." Someone who wears vintage-inspired jewelry, or distinctive statement pieces, may naturally gravitate toward turquoise.  Someone who prefers elegant blue gemstones may love tanzanite.  And if their jewelry box is full of diamond jewelry, zircon deserves serious consideration. Choosing Your December Birthstone Having three December birthstones isn't a problem to solve. It's a choice to enjoy.  A birthstone is personal by definition. You don't need to choose the one that is supposedly "best." Choose the one that looks right to you, and then make sure the jewelry around it is designed for the life you expect it to live. Also Read: June Birthstone November Birthstone February Birthstone

The traditional way to stack a wedding band with an engagement ring is simple: wear the wedding band closest to your hand, with the engagement ring above it. But this answer is the easiest part. The real challenge is choosing a wedding band for your engagement ring that actually fits, feels comfortable, and looks balanced. A straight band may sit beautifully beside one engagement ring and collide with another. A delicate band can balance a large center stone, while a wider one may compete for attention.  So before you choose a wedding band based on looks alone, look at how your engagement ring is built. Comfortable Fit comes first, balanced proportion comes second, and style comes third. Which Ring Goes on First: Wedding Band or Engagement Ring? Traditionally, the wedding band goes on first, closest to your hand, and the engagement ring sits above it. The wedding band is traditionally placed closer to the heart, which is why this arrangement has become the familiar wedding-ring order in the U.S. Think of the stack from your fingertip downward: Engagement ring Wedding band Your finger But there isn't a universal rule that says you have to wear them this way. Some people prefer the engagement ring closest to the hand because it feels more comfortable. Others wear the rings in the order they received them or choose a different arrangement for personal or cultural reasons.  The important thing is that the rings fit comfortably and the ring arrangement works for you. Start With Your Engagement Ring It can be tempting to shop for a wedding band by choosing a style you love and hoping it works with your engagement ring. But you should think backwards. But you should think backwards: start with your engagement ring's profile and setting, then choose a wedding band that fits around it.  Your engagement ring is already the more complex piece, so let its shape and construction guide the choice of wedding band. GIA similarly recommends starting with the engagement ring when building a wedding-and-engagement stack and considering the proportions of both rings together. Before you buy anything, look at your engagement ring from two angles. Look at the ring from the side Observing a side view of the engagement ring can save you from buying the wrong wedding band. Look at the height of the center stone and the metal beneath it. Is there enough clearance for another ring to sit beside the engagement ring, or does the setting extend down toward your finger? A high-profile engagement ring setting may leave enough room for a straight wedding band. A low-profile or low-set engagement ring can bring the center stone or its supporting structure closer to the finger, leaving less clearance for a straight band. The side profile also reveals parts of the ring that aren't obvious from above, such as the basket, bridge, gallery, or other metal supporting the center stone. If you're unsure what you're looking at, our [engagement ring settings guide] can help you understand how different settings are constructed and how they affect the ring's profile. Then look at it from the top Now consider your engagement ring's shape and overall proportions. A round solitaire engagement ring has very different proportions from a wide halo or a three-stone ring. A ring with an elongated center stone, such as an oval, pear, or marquise, can also create a different visual balance when paired with a band. This doesn't mean a particular diamond shape requires one specific wedding band. The engagement ring setting and profile matter just as much as the center stone's shape. That's why two oval engagement rings can need completely different wedding bands. Choose Between a Straight, Curved or Contoured Wedding Band Once you've inspected your engagement ring, the next question is whether you need a straight band or one shaped to fit around it. Wedding band style Best for What to know Straight Rings with enough clearance around the setting Simple and easy to wear on its own Curved Engagement rings that need some shaping around the setting Follows the outline of the engagement ring Contoured/notched Settings that need a more specific fit Designed to accommodate the shape of the engagement ring more closely If your goal is a flush-fit wedding band, where the band sits closely beside the engagement ring without a visible gap, the engagement ring's setting height and profile become especially important.  Straight wedding band A straight wedding band for an engagement ring works when there is enough space beneath or around the center setting for the two rings to sit beside each other. A straight band also gives you flexibility later. You can wear it alone, pair it with your engagement ring, or add another band if you decide to build a larger and more elaborate ring stack. Curved or contoured wedding band A curved or contoured band is made to follow the outline of your engagement ring. A curved wedding band works when an engagement ring has a lower profile and a big stone that does not fit a straight band perfectly. You don't need a curved band simply because you have an oval, pear, or marquise diamond. The deciding factor here is the physical shape of your engagement ring, particularly the setting and how far it extends toward the band. What if you want a gap? A small gap between your engagement ring and wedding band isn't a sign that something is wrong. Some ring combinations are deliberately designed to create a visible space between the two pieces. If you like that deliberate gap and the rings are comfortable and secure, there is no requirement for them to sit perfectly flush. But sometimes the gap between the two rings can cause problems like repeatedly rubbing, shifting, or catching against each other. In that case, have a jeweler look at the rings together before changing the band or altering either piece. How to Choose a Wedding Band to Match Your Engagement Ring  Once you've solved the physical fitting aspect of the wedding band stack, you can start thinking about its appearance. This is where personal style matters more. You don't need to find a wedding band that looks like your engagement ring was sold as a matching bridal set. The two rings can coordinate without being identical. Start with proportion Imagine your engagement ring as the main character and the wedding band as the supporting cast. The wedding band shouldn't disappear unless that's what you want. But it also shouldn't become so wide or detailed that the engagement ring loses its visual focus. For example, a slim pavé wedding band can add sparkle beside a solitaire ring without changing the clean character of the engagement ring. A wider and decorated band can create more contrast if you prefer a bolder stack. There is no single wedding band width that works for every engagement ring. Instead, compare the band width, center stone, setting height, and overall scale together. Decide whether you want matching or contrast You have two straightforward approaches. Match the rings: Use similar metal colors, settings, gemstones, band width, and design details for a coordinated look. Contrast the rings: Mix metals, combine two different aesthetics, contrasting color for gemstones, and levels of sparkle to make the stack more distinctive. One thing to remember, especially while contrasting rings, is to give the combination some connection. If everything is different- metal, texture, width, stone shape, and pattern- the stack can start to look accidental rather than deliberately layered. If you're still deciding what type of band to buy, our guide to choosing a wedding band for your engagement ring goes deeper into metal, width, design, and everyday wear.  Should Your Wedding Band Match Your Engagement Ring Metal? Your wedding band doesn’t have to be the same metal as your engagement ring. Matching metals create a seamless, classic look, while mixing metals adds contrast and can help each ring stand out. For example, a yellow-gold engagement ring can be paired with a white-metal wedding band for a more modern, layered look. There’s one practical consideration beyond appearance: the rings will move against each other as you wear them. Different metals have different levels of hardness and resistance to scratching, and gold’s karat also affects its composition and durability.  Because the rings may rub against each other every day, the combination you choose can influence how quickly each ring shows signs of wear. Before choosing a metal, it helps to understand how that metal is made and how its properties suit everyday wear. Our complete metal guide will give you all the information about ring metals. As a general starting point, 14K gold or platinum can be a practical choice for a wedding band when you want a good balance of durability and everyday wearability. How Wide Should Your Wedding Band Be? There isn't a universal width measurement for a wedding band for a ring stack. Instead, compare its width with the engagement ring's proportions. The wedding band width isn't the only consideration; the band's profile and thickness can also change how substantial the stack feels on your finger.  A very delicate band beside a substantial engagement ring can create a high-contrast look. A wider band can feel more balanced with a larger or more detailed setting, but it can also make the overall stack look heavier. If you're unsure, place the engagement ring and potential wedding band next to each other, or better yet, try the actual rings on the same finger. How to Pair a Wedding Band With Different Engagement Ring Styles The engagement ring's overall construction matters more than following a rigid style formula. Still, these combinations can give you a useful starting point. Solitaire engagement ring If the solitaire ring has a high setting, a straight band may sit neatly beneath it. If the setting sits lower, check the side profile before choosing a straight band.  Halo engagement ring A halo already creates width around the center stone, so look at the combined outline rather than focusing only on the center diamond. Check the underside of the halo, too. The shape of the setting, not simply the fact that it's a halo, determines whether the band can sit flush. Three-stone engagement ring Three-stone rings have more width across the finger, so proportion becomes important. Pay attention to the side stones. If they extend low toward your finger, a straight wedding band may not sit the way you expect. Oval, pear and marquise engagement rings Elongated stones can create a beautiful vertical line on the finger, and a wedding band can either reinforce that look or provide contrast. But don't choose a curved band simply because the center stone is elongated. Check the setting first. The basket, prongs, side stones, and height of the ring determine how much room the wedding band actually has. Low-set or vintage-style engagement rings Low-set and vintage rings deserve extra attention because their detailed settings can extend farther around the finger. If you're buying a band for an heirloom or intricate engagement ring, bring the actual ring when you shop.  How to Make Your Wedding Band and Engagement Ring Comfortable Together A beautiful ring stack isn't worth much if you can't comfortably wear it. Because your wedding band is designed for everyday wear, comfort matters just as much as how the two rings look together. Try the rings together and pay attention to how they behave when you move your hand. Check whether: One ring pushes the other sideways The engagement ring rotates excessively The bands pinch your finger A setting catches on the neighboring ring The rings feel tighter together than they do separately The edges repeatedly rub against each other Your finger can also change size throughout the day and with temperature, so don't judge the fit from one quick try-on. There’s another thing to get right before you buy, especially when ordering a wedding band online: measure your ring size accurately. If your size isn't accurate, even a well-designed ring stack can feel too tight, too loose, or uncomfortable once the two rings are worn together. Measure your finger carefully and use the jeweler's sizing guide before placing your order. A properly fitted ring should feel secure without being painfully tight. If the combination feels uncomfortable, don't assume you simply need to “get used to it.” Have a jeweler evaluate the fit and how the two rings interact before making a change. Build a Wedding Ring Stack That Can Grow With You Your wedding band doesn't have to be the final ring you'll ever wear. You may eventually add an anniversary band, an heirloom ring, or another ring with personal meaning. If you think you might build a larger stack later, leave yourself some visual and physical room to do it. That doesn't mean buying a band you don't love today because you might add something years from now. It simply means asking one extra question: "Will I still have options if my style changes?" A simple, stackable wedding band can become the foundation for a more layered stack later. A highly specific contoured band may look perfect with one engagement ring but leave fewer options around it. Think about the ring you're choosing now, but don't let future possibilities stop you from choosing something you genuinely like. Wedding Band and Engagement Ring Stack Ideas If you're still unsure which wedding band to pair with your engagement ring, don't worry. Our experts have a few comfortable, classic combinations to help you find a stack that feels right for both your style and everyday wear. Classic and coordinated Pair your engagement ring with a wedding band in the same metal and a similar design. This is the easiest choice if you want the two rings to look like they were made to belong together. Simple engagement ring + diamond band Let your engagement ring remain the focal point while a diamond wedding band adds a little extra sparkle. This works especially well when the engagement ring has a clean, understated design. Mixed-metal contrast Choose relatively simple designs and combine different metal colors. A yellow-gold engagement ring with a white-metal wedding band, for example, creates contrast without making the stack feel too busy. Delicate layered stack Choose a slim wedding band that keeps the engagement ring visually dominant. If you want to build a larger stack later, you can add another band without making the original combination feel overwhelming. Bold and balanced If your engagement ring has a substantial setting or a larger center stone, a wider wedding band can give the stack more visual weight. The goal is to create balance rather than letting one ring overpower the other. How to Choose the Right Wedding Band for Your Engagement Ring  There is no fixed answer to how to wear a wedding band and engagement ring together: traditionally, the wedding band first, and engagement ring second. But choosing the right wedding band stack is not just about ring order. It also involves comfort and style. Start with your engagement ring. Look at its side profile, check the setting clearance, then consider the band shape, width, and metal.  Choosing the right wedding band starts with the engagement ring you already have. Check the setting and side profile first, then decide whether you need a straight, curved, or contoured band. From there, compare the band's width, metal, sparkle, and overall proportions. Finally, try the two rings together to make sure they feel comfortable for everyday wear. 

If you were born in June, you don't have to settle for just one birthstone. June has three modern birthstones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. And they are very different from each other. Pearl has a soft, classic luster. Alexandrite is famous for changing color under different lighting. Moonstone has a dreamy glow that seems to move beneath its surface. But you may come across other gemstones when you search for June birthstones. Emerald, beryl, and agate, for example, appear in some traditional, historical, or zodiac-based birthstone systems.  All these June birthstones have their own unique characteristics and appeal. Let's look at what makes each one special, and how to choose the right June birthstone. Why Does June Have So Many Birthstones? Before we look at the individual gemstones of June, it's worth clearing up one common source of confusion. There isn't a single birthstone tradition that has remained unchanged throughout history.  Birthstone lists have evolved from religious traditions, historical gemstone associations, zodiac systems, and modern jewelry traditions. That's why you may find one source saying that June's birthstones are pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone, while another mentions emerald or agate.  These lists aren't necessarily contradicting each other. They may simply be using different birthstone systems. The Three Modern June Birthstones For the standard monthly birthstone list used today, June has three recognized stones: Pearl Alexandrite Moonstone Birthstone system June association What it means Modern monthly birthstones Pearl, alexandrite, moonstone The three commonly recognized June birthstones Historical birthstone traditions Agate, emerald, and others Older systems used different gemstone associations Apostle traditions Beryl Gemstones were associated with particular apostles Guardian angel traditions Emerald Gemstones were linked with angels and months Zodiac birthstone traditions Agate, emerald, and others Associations can depend on the zodiac sign and the system used Modern June Birthstones at a Glance Here's the quick comparison before we get into the details: Feature Pearl Alexandrite Moonstone Gemstone type Organic gemstone Chrysoberyl variety Feldspar gemstone Signature feature Silky luster Color change Adularescence Appearance White, cream, pink, peach, gray and other colors Green/bluish green to red/purplish red White, colorless, gray, peach and other colors Mohs hardness 2.5–3 8.5 6–6.5 Durability Relatively delicate Excellent Moderate to delicate Best known for Classic jewelry Rarity and color change Luminous glow Good jewelry choices Necklaces, earrings, occasional-wear rings Rings and everyday jewelry Pendants, earrings and occasional-wear pieces This table tells you the basic difference, but it doesn't tell the whole story. A gemstone's hardness, for example, matters differently depending on whether you're wearing it in a ring every day or occasionally in a pair of earrings. Therefore, you have to know about all three June birthstones individually. Pearl: The Classic June Birthstone Pearl is the most traditional gemstone choice for June-born people and the only organic gemstone among the three. Most gemstones form through geological processes inside the Earth. Pearls are different: they are created by living mollusks. What Is a Pearl? A pearl forms when a mollusk deposits layers of nacre, the iridescent material that gives the finished pearl its characteristic luster. Most pearls sold today are cultured pearls. They are genuine pearls, but the cultured pearls are created with human assistance. Natural pearls, which form naturally without human intervention, are much rarer. Pearls aren't limited to the familiar white or cream varieties, either. Depending on their type and origin, they can be pink, peach, gray, black, and other colors. What Does a Pearl Symbolize? Pearls have traditionally been associated with purity, wisdom, elegance, and refinement. Pearls are also strongly associated with new beginnings and important milestones, which is one reason they make such meaningful birthday, graduation, wedding, and anniversary gifts.  However, these traits are cultural and historical associations rather than scientifically proven properties. Still, symbolism is what makes a birthstone wearing meaningful, especially when the jewelry is being given as a birthday or milestone gift. How Durable Is Pearl? With a Mohs hardness of just 2.5–3, pearl is much softer than alexandrite and moonstone. It can scratch relatively easily and may also be damaged by chemicals, cosmetics, heat, or rough handling. That doesn't mean pearls are too delicate to wear in jewelry. It means they need a little bit more care. If you want to wear pearl jewelry, consider wearing pearl earrings and a necklace. They experience less impact than rings. Alexandrite: The Rare Color-Changing June Birthstone Alexandrite is the chameleon of June's birthstones. It is a rare variety of chrysoberyl best known for its remarkable color change. What Is Alexandrite? Alexandrite is a chrysoberyl variety. It has unusual optical behavior linked to chromium in its crystal structure. It was discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains in the 1830s. Today, alexandrite is also found in places including Brazil, Sri Lanka, and parts of East Africa. Fine natural alexandrite is very scarce. Finding an alexandrite that combines an attractive body color, strong color change, good clarity, and significant size can be very difficult. Why Does Alexandrite Change Color? The color-changing ability of alexandrite comes from the way alexandrite interacts with different kinds of light. This amazing light play happens because of the presence of chromium in its crystal structure. Chromium absorbs some wavelengths of light more strongly than others. Daylight and incandescent light have different spectral characteristics, so this gemstone looks noticeably different in daylight and electric light. In daylight or fluorescent lighting, alexandrite commonly appears green or bluish green. Under incandescent light, it can shift toward red, purplish red, or reddish purple. This phenomenon is called the alexandrite effect. How Durable Is Alexandrite? This is one aspect where alexandrite has a clear practical advantage over the other two June birthstones. Alexandrite measures about 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, so it is considerably more resistant to scratching than pearl or moonstone. It also has excellent toughness and no cleavage, making it well suited for rings. Of course, it isn't indestructible. Any gemstone can be damaged by a hard enough impact. But among June's three birthstones, alexandrite is the strongest choice for everyday June birthstone jewelry. What Does an Alexandrite Symbolize? Alexandrite has traditionally been associated with transformation, adaptability, balance, individuality, and good fortune. Its symbolism is closely tied to its most fascinating feature: its ability to appear different under different lighting conditions.  A stone that shifts from green or bluish green in daylight to red or purplish red under incandescent light represents the change, duality, and embracing different sides of yourself. Because alexandrite can look so different without actually changing into another gemstone, it is often seen as a symbol of adaptability and personal growth.  Its traditional connection with good fortune and prosperity can also make it a thoughtful gift for a birthday, graduation, career milestone, or another important beginning. Moonstone: The June Birthstone With a Floating Glow Moonstone comes with different characteristics than pearl and alexandrite. Its appeal comes from light that seems to float beneath the surface. What Is Moonstone? Moonstone is a gemstone from the feldspar family. It is cut as a cabochon. Cabochon is a smooth, rounded shape without the flat facets you see on many other gemstones. That smooth surface helps the moonstone to show its optical effect. What Is Adularescence? Tilt a good moonstone under a light, and you may see a soft band of light drifting across its surface. That effect is called adularescence. Unlike the crisp flashes of light produced by a brilliant-cut gemstone, adularescence looks softer and more diffuse. The light seems to move as you change the angle of the stone, creating the moonlit appearance that gives moonstone its name. What Colors Can Moonstone Be? Moonstone can occur in several body colors, including colorless, white, gray, and peach, among others. Some particularly desirable stones show a striking blue sheen, while others have a more subtle glow.  What Does Moonstone Symbolize? Moonstone has traditionally been associated with intuition, new beginnings, inner calm, emotional balance, and personal growth. Its connection to the moon plays a major role in these associations.  Just as the moon moves through different phases, moonstone has come to symbolize change, cycles, and the idea of embracing new stages of life.   How Durable Is Moonstone? Moonstone measures around 6–6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale and has relatively poor toughness compared to alexandrite. In practical terms, it can be scratched or damaged more easily than alexandrite. A moonstone ring can be beautiful, but it needs more care than a harder gemstone ring that you wear without much thought. That is why a moonstone is also a better fit for pendants and earrings. How Much Do June Birthstones Cost? There isn't a standard price for a June birthstone. Pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone can vary dramatically in value, even when two stones look equally beautiful. The price usually comes down to quality, rarity, size, and the characteristics that make a particular gemstone desirable. Of the three, alexandrite is generally the most expensive, especially a natural alexandrite and the one that shows a strong green-to-red color change. Moonstone is usually much more accessible, while pearl prices range from affordable freshwater pearls to highly valuable South Sea and rare natural pearls. What Affects Pearl Value? Pearl prices vary so widely that the type of pearl is the first thing to consider. Freshwater pearls are generally the most affordable, while Akoya, Tahitian, and South Sea pearls can command significantly higher prices. Individual pearls can range from around $20–$35 for affordable freshwater pearls to hundreds of dollars for higher-quality Akoya, Tahitian, or South Sea pearls.  Fine pearl jewelry can cost considerably more. For example, current farm-direct market data puts some Tahitian pearls at a median of about $42 for a loose pearl, while South Sea pearls have a median around $184 per loose pearl in one 2026 catalog sample. These are asking-price benchmarks rather than universal market averages. What Affects Alexandrite Value? Natural alexandrite with a strong, attractive color change is one of the rarest and most valuable varieties of colored gemstone. Its value depends on: Origin Body color Strength and completeness of the color change Clarity Size Cut Overall attractiveness The International Gem Society's price guide reports that top-quality natural alexandrite up to 1 carat averages about $1,818 per carat, while top-quality stones from 1 to 1.99 carats average about $6,667 per carat. These figures apply to top-quality natural material, so they should not be treated as an average price for every alexandrite on the market. What Affects Moonstone Value? Moonstone is generally more affordable than fine alexandrite, although exceptional material can still cost a premium price. The feature that determines the price of the moonstone is its adularescence. The International Gem Society reports that commercial-quality moonstone can cost around $20 per carat or less, while good-quality material is often around $125 per carat.  Emerald: A Traditional June Association Emerald appears in some traditional and guardian angel birthstone systems associated with June. Emerald is the green variety of beryl, and its rich green color has made it one of the world's most treasured colored gemstones. It has traditionally been associated with: Growth Renewal Love Wisdom Prosperity Beryl: June's Apostle Association Beryl is a historical apostle-based birthstone tradition connected with June. Beryl isn't just one gemstone. It is a mineral family that includes several familiar varieties. Emerald is green beryl. Aquamarine is blue to blue-green beryl. Morganite is usually pink to peach beryl. Heliodor is yellow to golden beryl. Agate: A Historical June Birthstone Agate is another gemstone you may find associated with June, particularly in historical birthstone systems. Agate is a variety of chalcedony, a form of quartz, and is best known for its natural bands, patterns, and wide range of colors. Unlike the relatively uniform appearance of pearl or the color-changing effect of alexandrite, agate gets much of its appeal from its individual patterns. No two agates have the same combination of bands and markings. Agate has traditionally been associated with: Protection Strength Stability Balance Good fortune Which June Birthstone Is Right for You? All the June birthstones come with their own unique characteristics. So, the perfect June birthstone for you depends on what you want from the stone. If you care most about... Consider Elegance Pearl Rarity Alexandrite Color-changing beauty Alexandrite A luminous glow Moonstone Frequent ring wear Alexandrite or Sapphire Traditional necklaces and earrings Pearl Romantic or artistic styling Moonstone An unusual gemstone story Alexandrite An organic gemstone Pearl Rich green color Emerald Growth and renewal symbolism Emerald A gemstone with several color options Beryl Natural patterns and an earthy look Agate A durable blue gemstone Sapphire A traditional or historical association Emerald, Beryl, or Agate A meaningful zodiac connection Agate or Emerald, depending on the tradition The strongest everyday-wear option Alexandrite or Sapphire The most delicate, feminine look Pearl or Moonstone Something distinctive and less conventional Alexandrite, Agate, or Moonstone