Jun 2, 2022
Updated: Jul 25, 2022
Did you know that Alexandrite is a phenomenal gem?
It possesses a very special characteristic, a phenomenon called "colour change".
Alexandrite literally changes colour under different light sources!
Green in daylight and red in warm candle light, alexandrite is known as “emerald by day, ruby by night”.
The stronger the colour change the more rare, valuable and expensive the
gem is.
Personally, I am a HUGE fan of this unique gemstone!
Alexandrite is a part of the chrysoberyl family
It's daylight colour ranges from very strongly bluish green to yellowish green
Most of the alexandrite on the market is eye clean (has no visible inclusions)
Alexandrite over 1 carat in size is rare. Stones of that size or larger are typically cut into ovals or cushions to save as much weight as possible. Round cuts lead to too much material loss and are very difficult to find.
To find out more about why certain gemstones are only cut into certain shapes, visit my previous post: Let's get in shape!
Alexandrite was first discovered in Russia in the 1830s, near the Ural Mountains (which happens to be where I am originally from). It was named after Russia’s Prince Alexander II and is known as the national stone of Russia.
Historic mines in Russia no longer produce significant amount of alexandrite and fine quality gems are rare and difficult to source.
Sri Lanka and Brazil are currently the two major sources of this phenomenal gem.
Currently, alexandrite supply is considered low, especially in sizes over 1 carat.
Although large alexandrite can come with a hefty price tag, smaller stones are much easier to source and are much more affordable.
Alexandrite in green and yellow tones is easier to find, however these are typically less desirable compared to the bluish green colours like below. But it all depends on your personal taste!
Alexandrite is also known for the following traits:
strengthens intuition and unleashes imagination
gives the owner hope and encouragement
can help you become your own source of happiness within yourself
brings balance between one's physical and spiritual worlds
Did you know that Pearls are also considered a birthstone for June?
Blog Post on this elegant and timeless gem, coming soon!
Do you know what powers and qualities your birthstone holds?
To find out, visit my previous post - What is my Birthstone?
In terms of hardness, alexandrite scores an 8.5 out of 10 on Moh's scale.
With sapphires and rubies at 9 and diamonds at 10, these can scratch your alexandrite if not stored properly or if they rub against each other.
Although not as durable as diamonds and sapphires, alexandrite is a gorgeous and durable stone for everyday wear and is a perfect choice if you are looking for a unique and one-of-a-kind engagement ring!
Looking for tips on how to keep you jewellery Clean and Damage-Free?
Get my FREE jewellery cleaning guide here
Synthetic alexandrite (also known as man-made or lab grown) can be developed by scientists in labs.
It has the same crystal structure and chemical composition as natural alexandrite.
It may look similar but can only be identified as synthetic with the use of certain equipment by a certified gemologist (like me).
Although synthetic alexandrite is available for purchase at certain jewellery stores at a fraction of a price of a natural alexandrite, the two should not be confused as their value is completely different.
Pro Tip: Beware of large alexandrite stones being sold as "natural", most likely, they are synthetic.
When purchasing natural coloured gemstones from Tsarina Gems, you will receive an independent, third party appraisal for your piece of mind.
I take pride in working with companies who supply responsibly sourced, natural gemstones.
I would be delighted to hear about it!
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