What To Know
- In the late 19th century, alexandrite was also found in Sri Lanka, and it is now mined in a number of other countries, including Brazil, India, and Madagascar.
- The rarity of alexandrite is due to the fact that it is difficult to find crystals that are large enough and have the right color-changing properties.
- The value of alexandrite is determined by a number of factors, including the size, color, clarity, and cut of the gemstone.
Alexandrite is a rare and beautiful gemstone that is prized for its unique color-changing properties. It is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is also the mineral that makes up rubies and sapphires. Alexandrite is typically green in daylight, but it changes to a reddish-purple color under incandescent light. This color change is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium impurities in the corundum crystal lattice.
History of Alexandrite
Alexandrite was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in 1830. It was named after Tsar Alexander II, who was the reigning monarch at the time. Alexandrite quickly became a popular gemstone, and it was used in jewelry by royalty and other wealthy individuals. In the late 19th century, alexandrite was also found in Sri Lanka, and it is now mined in a number of other countries, including Brazil, India, and Madagascar.
Color-Changing Properties of Alexandrite
Alexandrite is best known for its color-changing properties. This phenomenon is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium impurities in the corundum crystal lattice. These impurities absorb light of certain wavelengths, which causes the gemstone to appear to change color. The color change is most noticeable under incandescent light, but it can also be seen in daylight.
Rarity of Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a relatively rare gemstone. It is much rarer than rubies and sapphires, and it is also more expensive. The rarity of alexandrite is due to the fact that it is difficult to find crystals that are large enough and have the right color-changing properties.
Value of Alexandrite
The value of alexandrite is determined by a number of factors, including the size, color, clarity, and cut of the gemstone. The most valuable alexandrite gemstones are those that are large, have a strong color change, and are free of inclusions.
Alexandrite Jewelry
Alexandrite is a popular gemstone for jewelry. It is often used in rings, earrings, and necklaces. Alexandrite can also be used in other types of jewelry, such as brooches and bracelets.
Caring for Alexandrite Jewelry
Alexandrite is a relatively hard gemstone, but it can be scratched by other hard objects. It is important to store alexandrite jewelry in a soft cloth pouch or jewelry box. Alexandrite should also be cleaned regularly with a mild soap and water solution.
Alexandrite: A Gemstone of Mystery and Beauty
Alexandrite is a truly unique and beautiful gemstone. Its color-changing properties make it a fascinating and desirable gemstone for jewelry. Alexandrite is also a relatively rare gemstone, which makes it even more valuable. If you are looking for a gemstone that is both beautiful and unique, alexandrite is a great option.
Top Questions Asked
- What is the difference between alexandrite and emerald?
Alexandrite and emerald are both green gemstones, but they are different minerals. Alexandrite is a variety of corundum, while emerald is a variety of beryl. Alexandrite also has the unique property of changing color from green to reddish-purple under incandescent light.
- What is the most valuable color of alexandrite?
The most valuable color of alexandrite is a strong, saturated green that changes to a reddish-purple under incandescent light.
- How can I tell if an alexandrite gemstone is real?
There are a few ways to tell if an alexandrite gemstone is real. One way is to look at the color change. A real alexandrite gemstone will change color from green to reddish-purple under incandescent light. Another way to tell if an alexandrite gemstone is real is to look at the inclusions. Real alexandrite gemstones often have inclusions, which are small imperfections in the crystal.
