Alexandrite, a captivating and exceptionally rare gemstone, holds a distinguished position as one of the recognized birthstones for June. Its remarkable ability to change color under different lighting conditions, coupled with a fascinating history intertwined with Russian royalty, has cemented its place in the world of gemstones. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of alexandrite, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The story of alexandrite begins in the Ural Mountains of Russia during the 1830s. Its discovery coincided with the coming of age of Alexander II, then a young crown prince, and the gemstone was named in his honor. The stone’s unique color shift – displaying green in daylight and red under incandescent light – mirrored the national colors of imperial Russia, red and green, further linking the gem to the country’s heritage. This association immediately imbued alexandrite with a sense of prestige and royal connection.
The concept of birthstones itself has ancient roots, traceable to the biblical Breastplate of Aaron, which featured twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel. While the specific stones used remain a subject of debate, scholars like Flavius Josephus and St. Jerome later connected these gems to the months of the year and the zodiac signs. This tradition evolved over centuries, with the assignment of specific gemstones to each month becoming increasingly formalized. Alexandrite was a later addition to the list, officially recognized as a June birthstone in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America.
Historically, alexandrite has been associated with prosperity, good luck, and harmony. It was believed to bring good fortune and symbolize royal elegance, particularly within Russia. The gem’s color-changing property is often interpreted as a representation of balance and adaptability, reflecting the duality inherent in life and emotions. The practice of assigning gemstones to astrological signs, known as Astral stones, suggests a belief in their ability to awaken hidden powers or affect healing and protective abilities.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl, a beryllium aluminum oxide mineral. While chrysoberyl is known for exhibiting chatoyancy – the “cat’s eye” effect – alexandrite is distinguished by its color-changing ability. The formation of alexandrite requires a unique combination of minerals, specifically the presence of chromium, which is responsible for the color change.
Originally discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia, alexandrite sources have expanded over time. Today, significant deposits are found in Russia, Sri Lanka, and Brazil. However, genuine alexandrite remains exceptionally rare, contributing to its high value and desirability. The characteristics of alexandrite can vary depending on its origin.
Gemological Properties
Alexandrite’s most defining characteristic is its color change. In natural sunlight, it typically appears green to bluish-green. However, under incandescent light, it transforms to a red or purplish-red hue. The clarity and completeness of this color change are key factors in determining the gem’s value; the more distinct the shift, the more valuable the stone. Gemologists assess the color change by observing the stone’s color under different lighting conditions, with the classic alexandrite exhibiting a green-to-red transformation.
Alexandrite’s hardness is 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for jewelry. It is a variety of chrysoberyl, and can sometimes exhibit the cat’s eye effect when cut as a cabochon. An exceptional example of this is an oval cabochon alexandrite from Andhra Pradesh, India, displaying both a strong color change and a sharp cat’s eye across its surface.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Chrysoberyl (Beryllium Aluminum Oxide) |
| Color Change | Green/Blue-Green (Daylight) to Red/Purple (Incandescent) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7.5 - 8 |
| Rarity | Extremely Rare |
| Sources | Russia, Sri Lanka, Brazil |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, alexandrite carries significant symbolic weight. Its association with Russian royalty lends it an air of elegance and prestige. The gem’s color-changing property is often interpreted as a metaphor for adaptability and balance, reflecting the ability to navigate different situations and embrace change.
The broader tradition of birthstones suggests that alexandrite possesses inherent energies that can benefit those born in June. Some believe that these “Astral stones” can awaken hidden powers, promote healing, and bring good luck. The connection between zodiac signs and gemstones further reinforces this belief, with each stone believed to be linked to specific planetary energies.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively high hardness, alexandrite is a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. However, as with any gemstone, proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance and protect it from damage. Cleaning alexandrite can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone’s surface. Given its value and rarity, professional cleaning and inspection are recommended periodically.
Conclusion
Alexandrite stands as a testament to the beauty and rarity found within the natural world. From its origins in the Ural Mountains of Russia and its association with imperial royalty to its captivating color-changing ability and enduring symbolism, this June birthstone continues to fascinate and inspire. Its limited supply and unique properties ensure that alexandrite will remain a prized gem for generations to come, cherished by collectors and admired for its exceptional beauty.