Alexandrites: The Gemstone of Royalty
Precious gemstones such as diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds have been revered for centuries by royals for their unmatched beauty. But we seldom hear about other natural gemstones that captivated the nobles with their striking features. In this article, we’re going to discuss one such unique natural gem prized for its phenomenal color-shifting attributes. Yes, you guessed it right, we’re hinting at none other than alexandrites.
We know it all that you’re also searching the internet for an alexandrite stone for sale. Don’t panic. We’ll soon come back to this but before that, let’s first explore the glorious history of these marvelous gemstones.
How do we know Alexandrites?
The alexandrites were discovered in the 1830s in the emerald mines near the Tokovaya River in Russia’s Ural Mountains. Initially, these gems were thought to be emeralds only. It was sometime later that Nils Gustaf Nordenskiold, a prominent mineralogist, observed the dramatic attributes of this never-seen-before gem.https://www.gemsny.com/bracelets/diamond-bracelets/
In 1834, the stone was named “alexandrite” by Count Lev Alekseevich Perovskii after the young Alexander II, the future Russian Czar. This royal connection and the mystical color-changing properties gave alexandrites huge popularity in 19th and 20th century Russia. The stones’ vibrant red and green hues were also associated with the colors of the national military of Imperial Russia.
Why are Alexandrites So Popular?
Alexandrites might not be treated as highly as the four precious gemstones but these hypnotic gems embody a mystical ability that none of the regal precious gems possess. Yes, we’re hinting at alexandrite’s chameleon instinct which gave it the status of an “emerald by day and ruby by night”.
Alexandrites are pleochroic which means that they tend to change color when viewed under different lighting. This happens due to the presence of chromium in their chemical composition. A natural alexandrite appears vibrant green (as an emerald) in daylight but dramatically turns dark red (as a ruby) under incandescent light. This phenomenon is termed the “alexandrite effect”. A fine-quality gem reflects a green to bluish-green and a red to purplish-red shade which is quite rare.
Alexandrite Deposits Today
The Russian alexandrite deposits were largely depleted by the 1890s due to excessive mining. This led to their reduced supply and subsequently reduced demand until new discoveries were made in 1987 in Brazil.
Today, natural alexandrite gems are mined in Brazil, Sri Lanka and East Africa. However, only a few of the specimens from these new deposits actually turn out to be of exceptional quality. Most of them either have muddy hues or a low “alexandrite effect”. As such, the Russian alexandrites are still considered to be the standard for accessing the quality of alexandrites from other deposits.
Value of Natural Alexandrites
The huge rarity of fine-quality alexandrites makes them command premium prices in the color gemstone market. In fact, these majestic gems are rarer than the natural diamonds. Due to this very reason, the production of lab-grown alexandrites began in the 1960s. Hence, it’s more affordable to possess a lab-grown genuine alexandrite than its natural counterpart.
Can I wear Alexandrites in Everyday Jewelry?
Alexandrites possess a hardness score of 8.5 on the 10-point Mohs hardness scale. As such, you can wear alexandrite gems in any form of jewelry, from rings to bracelets. And yes, you can wear these gems every day provided you take good care of them against scratches and blows.
In fact, the mystical appearance of natural alexandrite makes it an alluring heirloom jewel that can be passed through generations. After all, who would not love to acquire such a creative wonder of nature? So, if you ever inherit one from your mom or granny, cherish it for its sentimental value and exotic appeal.
Astrological Tales of the June Birthstone
Alexandrite is often associated with the qualities of balance and transformation because of its remarkable camouflaging effect. It is believed to promote harmony and growth in personal relationships.
Specifically, alexandrites are one of the three birthstones for the sixth month of the calendar, June. Hence, a June-born can wear this birthstone in a ring, pendant or bracelet to attract good luck and prosperity. Also, natural alexandrite jewels can make a memorable 55th wedding anniversary gift.
Parting Words
Alexandrites might not be termed as precious but they have all the qualities that make them priceless gems. Are you also captivated by the otherworldly charm of these gems and searching for a Russian alexandrite for sale? Then just chill because, at GemsNY, you’re promised no less than a jackpot with 100% certified genuine alexandrite stones.
You can design your alexandrite jewelry featuring diamonds in gold and platinum at the best prices. And, if you still have questions about the company’s policies and services, check out GemsNY reviews for what their happy customers have to say.
