Alexandrite, which is used in June birthstone jewelry, is one of the scarcest of gemstones to surface on the earth. It’s known as the June birthstone and is the precious stone used to commemorate the 45th and 55th wedding anniversaries. It belongs to the chrysoberyl group and is formed from a blend of chromium, aluminium, titanium, iron and chrysoberyl mineral.
Color Changing Properties of Alexandrite
This June birthstone is greatly revered because of it’s capacity to radically switch colors. Compared to other gemstone for example diamonds and sapphires, alexandrite is a fairly new gemstone to the market, having only been discovered roughly 150 years ago. The Alexandrite gem was first found in the Russian Ural Mountains during the early part of the nineteenth century and was named after Alexander II the Czar of Russia. This precious stone was given the name “magic gem” because of it’s beautiful show of colors.
Description of the June Birthstone Alexandrite
The color of this precious stone varies with the wavelength of the illuminating light and the chemical bonds in the gem. In natural light alexandrite reveals a bluish green colors like moss but when seen under the light from a candle or lamp the color changes to a lovely raspberry shade. This transaction is referred to as the alexandrite effect. It’s a result of the chemical combination of of chromium with the rare mineral chrysoberyl. the lovely color of Alexandrite come from chromium.
Alexandrite Gem Quality
It is important to take into account the intensity of the color change when evaluating an alexandrite. The gemstone is considered rare and more valuable if the color change is more complete and intense. A further aspect to consider is the cutting quality and clarity of the gem. Alexandrites found in Russia are thought to be of superior color and quality, thus making them more expensive. Most of the alexandrites on in the shops are less than 1 carat as larger sizes are unaffordable by nearly everyone.
Caring for Your Alexandrite Jewels
it is necessary to keep alexandrites away from extreme heat because this can affect their color change effect. When cleaning these gemstones warm water can be used or alcohol or a specially made jewelry cleaning solution. If ultrasonic or steam cleaning are required properly skilled jewelers ought to be used.
Sources of Alexandrite
The initial origin of alexandrite in Russia has long since been mined out, though the mines are still working and produce a few carats every year. Currently there are 2 chief sources of alexandrite gems, Brazil and Sri Lanka (Ceylon). In the 1990’s Alexandrite stones were also discovered in countries such as India, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Myanmar (Burma) and Madagascar. Sadly, none of these sources has managed to produce as vivid and intense colors as the original gems from Russia. Stones from these locations have their own individuality: such as the grayish tones of stones from Ceylon and yellow tones in gems from Brazil.
Finally
Despite the comparatively short history of this attractive gemstone it has already been attributed with a range of magical and mystical properties. It’s a rare and gorgeous gem and makes a superb June birthstone jewelry gift for a cherished one who has a June birthday.
