Alexandrite is one of many beautiful gemstones. Typically green or purple in color, alexandrite is one of June’s birthstones. It’s also considered the stone for 55th wedding anniversaries. This stone is a beautiful option for a variety of jewelry pieces and is common in rings, necklaces, bracelets, and other beautiful accessories.
The History of Alexandrite
Alexandrite was first discovered in 1830. Deposits were found in the Ural Mountains in Russia. At first, the stone was thought to be an emerald. However, it was quickly discovered that the color changed from green to purple depending on the lighting. According to folklore, the stone was named after Alexander II and captured Russia’s attention because its colors matched those of imperial Russia’s national military.
Today, most alexandrite comes from Brazil, East Africa, and Sri Lanka. Though newly-mined gems can be beautiful, many experts feel the colors aren’t as vibrant and drastic as those from the original Russian deposits. Natural alexandrite is extremely rare, and most alexandrite produced today is lab-created.
Alexandrite’s Unique Color
This gem is particularly unique because of its ability to change appearance. There is an old saying, “emerald by day, ruby by night.” Alexandrite will look different to you based on the lighting and angle. As a member of the chrysoberyl mineral family, alexandrite has unique light-absorbing properties. It can look green, orange, or purplish-red.
You’re more likely to see the green hues when looking at the gem in natural sunlight. In the natural light, such as under a lightbulb, the stone will look more purple. The more saturated the stone’s color, the higher it’s worth. Color is therefore a large determining factor in the stone’s value.
Other Physical Attributes of Alexandrite
In addition to color, alexandrite’s clarity will impact its value. This is the case for all precious gems. Ideally, the stone will have good clarity with minimal inclusions. The larger the gemstone, the more likely you are to see inclusions that could hinder the stone’s appearance. Jewelers will prioritize pieces that are “eye-clean,” meaning you don’t see any imperfections within the stone using the naked eye.
There are a variety of inclusions appraisers will look for with alexandrite, including needles, crystals, twinning, fluorite, apatite, mica platelets, rutile, multi-phase inclusions, fingerprints, liquid inclusions, and hollow tubes. This is similar to inclusions found in other precious gemstones.
While alexandrite can be found in natural mineral deposits, it can also be lab-created. Lab-created alexandrite has the same exact properties as natural alexandrite. The only difference is that it’s made in a laboratory instead of in nature.
Alexandrite Meaning
Alexandrite is supposed to represent the balance between spiritual and physical aspects of your being. It also symbolizes luck, prosperity, and intellect. Alexandrite jewelry is often gifted to others based on these thoughtful meanings.
Some feel that the stone has healing properties. They feel that carrying alexandrite on your person can help with long-term conditions by returning your body to good health, promoting blood circulation, and purifying your organs.
Why Choose Alexandrite
There are several benefits to choosing alexandrite when searching for the perfect precious gemstone. Alexandrite stands apart from the rest with its chameleon-like appearance. You can enjoy different hues depending on the time of day, where you are, and what angle you’re looking at the stone. Be sure to look at different alexandrite stones and determine if you want something richer in color, or if you prefer a more diluted look. Keep in mind how color is crucial when it comes to price and value.
Alexandrite is a popular alternative to more expensive stones, like diamonds. More and more individuals are seeking out gemstones for engagement rings. Alexandrite could be a beautiful alternative, especially for those with a June birthday or anniversary. It’s also relatively hard, scoring an 8.5 on the Mohs scale. In other words, it is okay to wear daily and face minor impacts without breaking. It’s not quite as hard as a diamond, but harder than other gemstones that can scratch and chip very easily.
In summary, alexandrite is a gorgeous option, loved by many. With its color-changing performance, thoughtful symbolism, and strong physical qualities, you can’t go wrong with alexandrite.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Absorption Spectrum | Strong absorption at 476 nm and 680 nm |
| Birefringence | 0.008 to 0.010 |
| Birthstone | June (alternative) |
| Cleavage | None |
| Colors | Green in daylight, red in incandescent light |
| Crystallography | Orthorhombic |
| Dispersion | 0.015 |
| Etymology | Named after Tsar Alexander II of Russia |
| Formula | BeAl₂O₄:Cr³⁺ |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Hardness | 8.5 on the Mohs scale |
| Heat Sensitivity | Stable |
| Luminescence | Present |
| Luminescence Type | Red under long-wave UV light |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Occurrence | Brazil, Sri Lanka, East Africa, Russia |
| Optic Sign | Biaxial positive |
| Optics | Double refractive |
| Phenomena | Color change |
| Pleochroism | Strong |
| Refractive Index | 1.746 to 1.755 |
| Special Care Instructions | Avoid sudden temperature changes and harsh chemicals |
| Specific Gravity | 3.73 to 3.80 |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Variety of | Chrysoberyl |
| Wearability | Excellent for everyday wear |