Introduction:
Alexandrite Stone is a gemstone that is becoming increasingly popular, but that many people have never heard of. The extremely rare color-changing variation of the mineral chrysoberyl, this crystal is frequently referred to as “emerald by day, ruby by night” by gem connoisseurs. It was first identified in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s and is currently found in Sri Lanka, East Africa, and Brazil. Here’s what you need to know about this beautiful gem.
History of Alexandrite
- This special gemstone was first discovered in Russia in the 1830s and was named after Alexander II, the then-tsar of Russia. It quickly became associated with royalty and luxury due to its rarity and stunning colors.
- This gemstone is unique as it appears to be different colors in different lighting. In natural sunlight, it looks green, but indoors it appears red or purple. The official gemstone of Imperial Russia’s Tsardom was this gemstone because its red and green tones matched that country’s flag.
What makes Alexandrite unique?
- This unique gemstone is known for its beauty and its rarity, but it also has some interesting properties. It is said to promote courage and strength, while also helping to balance one’s emotions. It is also believed to help with creativity and concentration.
- During daylight, the fine stone is green to blue-green, and in incandescent light, it is red to purple red. It has a moderate to a strong level of color saturation. Too-light stones cannot achieve the level of color intensity found in fine-quality jewels.
The Popularity of Alexandrite:
- This gemstone was first discovered and became associated with royalty. This precious gemstone is becoming more popular in recent years, particularly among younger generations because of its unique dual shades and the glamor attached to it.
Is alexandrite a pricey gem?
- The alexandrite Stone Price of this color-changing gem is always influenced by size. High-quality natural gems can sell for up to $15,000 per carat in sizes up to one carat. Prices per carat for diamonds larger than one range from $50,000 to $70,000!
How can you know if alexandrite is authentic?
- An expert can also assist you by examining the gem’s refractive index. The refractive index of genuine gems ranges from 1.746 to 1.755.
- It has two refractive indices. Corundum, on the other hand, is also doubly reflective but only has a refractive index that ranges from 1.770 to 1.762.
How do you determine the rarest shade of alexandrite?
- The most intriguing feature of this gemstone is how seeing it in daylight or fluorescent light, as opposed to incandescent light, results in a dramatic color change.
- The most valuable and uncommon color shift from emerald green to raspberry red is special. Despite being discovered in Sri Lanka, Brazil, Myanmar, Madagascar, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe, this is still regarded as a rare gem.
- This crystal belongs to the mineral family chrysoberyl. As it can change colors, the gem is considered special. When shown in incandescent light, this changes to reddish hues from Its natural green or blue-green color under daylight and fluorescent illumination.
What does alexandrite symbolize?
- The gemstone of good fortune, wealth, and intelligence is this unique colored gem. It can help you find the balance of who you are by representing physical and spiritual harmony.
Which cut suits alexandrite the best?
- The most typical design (facet) for the best appearance is what is referred to as a “mixed cut. This cut enables a bigger table and a steeper cut pavilion to maintain color saturation and color change while maximizing weight.
Does alexandrite glow in a dark environment?
- When this stone is exposed to UV light, a bright, brilliant red hue is produced. Although the cause is different, this also results from chromium ion impurities in the structure. In this instance, the coloration is brought on by fluorescence.
