June’s Birthstone
Alexandrite is one of the more usual gemstones used in jewelry designs today. Not only is it the one of the birthstones for June (pearl is the other), it is the only birthstone that changes color according to the light. Read on to learn more facts about this fascinating gem often described as “emerald by day, ruby by night.”
Vzb83, CC BY-SA 3.0 http:creativecommons.orglicensesby-sa3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
What is Alexandrite?
Named after the Russian Czar Alexander II, this gemstone is a recent find, at least as gemstones go. While many of our favorite gems date back to ancient times, alexandrite wasn’t discovered until the 1830’s in the Ural Mountains of Russia. Initially found in an emerald mine, it was mistaken for that stone until its color changing properties were recognized. Its reddish and greenish hues matched the Russian national colors which led to it becoming the official gemstone of Imperial Russia. It is part of the chrysoberyl family and one of the hardest minerals on the planet, scoring a 8.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Natural alexandrite is rarer than diamonds and pricier than the trio of precious stones- ruby, sapphire, and emerald. It is traditionally presented as a 55th wedding anniversary gift and, most famously, it is the birthstone for June.
Alexandrite’s Curious Color
It is the color of this stone that gives it its unique value among gems. When seen in sunlight, alexandrite appears blueish-green; in artificial lighting, it turns to a reddish purple color. The color change is caused by trace amounts of chromium present in the stone and how it absorbs the light. Because of this signature trait, alexandrite is one of the few stones that is not treated for color enhancement.
Where is Alexandrite Found?
The initial deposits of alexandrite found in Russia have long since been depleted. These “original” alexandrites are among the most prized specimens of this stone as they exhibit striking hues with signature color change. It wasn’t until the late 1980’s that a new source of this gemstone was found in Brazil. Today the stone is also found in Tanzania, Africa, and Sri Lanka but in very small amounts, making it highly valuable. While some high quality gems are still found, the new deposits do not have the intense color and beauty of the Russian gems. In fact, alexandrite remains rarer than diamonds and a fine quality natural alexandrite is prohibitively expensive to the average buyer.
What Does Alexandrite Represent?
If its natural beauty wasn’t enough, alexandrite is also believed to bring good fortune, creativity, and enhance concentration and intuition. It brings balance to your physical world and inspires hope and happiness.
Significant Finds
The largest uncut gem-quality alexandrite ever found is known as the Sauer Alexandrite, discovered in 1967. It weighs in at a staggering 122,5400 carats. One of the most beautiful gem- cut stones is in the Smithsonian Collection.
*Please note that all metaphysical/ healing properties are for informational/entertainment purposes and do not constitute advice or recommendation concerning the treatment of physical, mental, or emotional medical conditions. The Jewelry Junket does not guarantee the validity of any of such statements.
