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Alexandrite - June Birthstone

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!



loose cushion alexandrite colour change comparison


Curious to find out more?



Let's begin with some fun facts:

  • 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)


round alexandrite and diamond halo rose gold filigree stud earrings


  • 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!

 


yellowish green loose oval alexandrite held in tweezers


Source


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.



loose round alexandrite next to a pink flower on a white background


Availability


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!




round alexandrite and diamond halo rose gold pendant and chain necklace in a black velvet jewellery box




June Birthstone


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



Alexandrite june birthstone infographic


 

Did you know that Pearls are also considered a birthstone for June?


Blog Post on this elegant and timeless gem, coming soon!

 



a strand of white cultured pearls neck to black sunglasses and red lipstick


 

Do you know what powers and qualities your birthstone holds?


To find out, visit my previous post - What is my Birthstone?

 


Durability


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.



a yellow gold and glass jewellery box containing jewellery pendants and rings next to a peach carnation flower


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!




oval alexandrite and diamond halo white gold engagement ring showing colour change on white background


 

Looking for tips on how to keep you jewellery Clean and Damage-Free?


Get my FREE jewellery cleaning guide here

 



Synthetic alexandrite

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.

 


white gift bag with a blue ribbon tied in a bow


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.









Is Alexandrite on your wishlist?


I would be delighted to hear about it!




Schedule a complimentary, 30 minute connection call with me here





Visit Tsarina Gems Instagram page for more stunning jewellery ideas

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