Alexandrite, which is used in June birthstone jewelry, is one of the scarcest of gems to surface on the earth. It’s recognized as the June birthstone and is the stone used to mark the 45th and 55th wedding anniversaries. It is a member of family and made of a mix of titanium, aluminum, iron, chromium and the chrysoberyl mineral.
Alexandrite’s Color Changing Properties
This June birthstone is greatly admired because of it’s ability to radically switch colors. In comparison with other gemstone such as sapphires and diamond, alexandrite is a comparatively new gem to the market, having only been found roughly 150 years ago. The Alexandrite gemstone was first found in the Ural Mountains of Russia during the early part of the nineteenth century and was named after Czar Alexander II, the Emperor of Russian. This birthstone was dubbed with the name “magic gem” because of it’s gorgeous show of colors.
Description of the June Birthstone Alexandrite
The color of this birthstone varies with the the wavelength of light and the chemical bonds in the gem. In sunlight alexandrite exhibits a bluey green moss like color but when placed under lamp or candle light this color transforms to a lovely raspberry tone. This transformation is called the alexandrite effect. It’s a result of the chemical blending of chrysoberyl, which is a rare oxide mineral, and chromium. The trace element chromium gives Alexandrite it’s lovely colors.
Alexandrite Gemstone Quality
It’s critical to consider the intensity of the color change when valuing an alexandrite. The gem is considered rare and of higher value if the color change is more complete and deep. A further thing to consider is the clarity and cutting quality of the gem. Alexandrites found in Russia are alleged to be of superior color and quality, thus making them more costly. The majority of the alexandrites on in the shops are less than one carat since larger sizes are too expensive by most people.
Looking after Your Alexandrite Jewels
it is essential to keep alexandrites away from excessive heat because this can affect their color change effect. When cleaning these gems warm, soapy water may be used as well as alcohol or any commercially available products. If ultrasonic or steam cleaning are needed suitably qualified jewelers should be used.
Sources of Alexandrite
The original origin of alexandrite in Ural Mountains has now virtually run out, though the mines are still open and turn out a small number of carats each year. Currently there are two main producers of alexandrite gems, Brazil and Sri Lanka (Ceylon). In the 1990’s Alexandrite gems were also discovered in countries such as India, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Myanmar (Burma) and Madagascar. Sadly, none of these new sources has produced as vivid and intense colors as the original gems from Russia. Gemstones from these areas have their own uniqueness: for example the grey hues of Ceylon stones and yellow tones in gems from Brazil.
Finally
In spite of the relatively short history of this “magic gem” it’s already been credited with a variety of mystical and magical properties. It is an uncommon and stunning gem and makes a wonderful June birthstone jewelry gift for a loved one with a June birthday.
Related posts:
- Alexandrite Jewelry – The Story
- Alexandrite jewelry makes a perfect gift
- Alexandrite jewellery for your wedding
- Birthstone Jewelry for August – Peridot
- What is my Zodiac Birthstone
- The Endless Beauty of Gemstone Jewelry
- Origins of Modern Birthstone Jewelry
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