Alexandrite stands as a remarkable and exceptionally valuable gemstone, often surpassing even the diamond in per-carat price. Recognized as one of June’s birthstones, alongside pearl and moonstone, its unique color-changing properties and relatively recent discovery contribute to its high demand and exclusivity. This article will delve into the history, gemological properties, and significance of this fascinating stone, drawing solely from available sources.
A Relatively Recent Discovery and Royal Association
Alexandrite was first discovered in 1830 within the Ural Mountains of Russia. The discovery is notably linked to the future Czar Alexander II, then heir to the throne, leading to the gemstone being named in his honor. The stone’s coloration – red and green – coincidentally mirrored the military colors of Russia at the time, further solidifying its status as the national stone of Russia. This royal and national connection significantly contributed to its initial prestige and desirability.
The Phenomenon of Color Change
The defining characteristic of alexandrite is its dramatic color change. In daylight, the gemstone typically exhibits a bluish-green hue. However, under incandescent light, it transforms to a purplish-red. This phenomenon is due to its unique chemical composition and how it absorbs light. Jewelers often describe it as appearing like an emerald during the day and a ruby by night, a poetic description that highlights its captivating duality.
Gemological Characteristics and Formation
Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. While specific details regarding its chemical formula are not provided in the available sources, its hardness and durability are noted. The stone scores highly on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for various jewelry applications.
The sources do not detail the exact geological processes involved in alexandrite formation, only stating that it forms deep within the Earth. The original source of alexandrite was the Ural Mountains of Russia, but further information on its formation is not available in the provided materials.
Value and Rarity
Alexandrite is currently considered the most expensive birthstone, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $70,000 per carat. This valuation surpasses that of diamonds, which typically range from $3,500 to $10,000 per carat. The high cost is directly linked to its rarity and the unique optical phenomenon it exhibits. While diamonds are prized for their color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, alexandrite’s value is primarily driven by the strength and clarity of its color change.
Alexandrite Compared to Other Gemstones
The provided sources place alexandrite at the top of the list of most expensive birthstones, exceeding the value of diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. While these other gemstones are not necessarily rarer overall, high-quality specimens are in high demand, contributing to their significant worth. The sources highlight that the most valuable diamonds are colorless, internally flawless, and Type IIa, while the most prized alexandrites display a distinct and dramatic color change.
Historical Context of Birthstones
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific birth months has ancient roots, tracing back to Babylonian, Hindu, and Greek civilizations. These cultures believed gemstones possessed mystical healing powers and carried special meanings. While the modern practice of assigning birthstones gained popularity with Tiffany & Co. in 1870, the underlying belief in the unique qualities of each stone has persisted for millennia. Birthstone jewelry is often gifted for significant life events, such as birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries, due to its sentimental and aesthetic appeal.
A Complete List of Birthstones
The sources provide a comprehensive list of birthstones associated with each month:
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Aquamarine
- April: Diamond
- May: Emerald
- June: Pearl and Alexandrite
- July: Ruby
- August: Peridot
- September: Sapphire
- October: Opal
- November: Citrine and Topaz
- December: Tanzanite and Turquoise
The Significance of Birthstones
Beyond their aesthetic beauty, birthstones are believed to carry distinctive qualities. For example, garnet, the birthstone of January, is said to bring protection and vitality, while emerald, the birthstone of May, symbolizes love and rebirth. This imbues birthstone jewelry with both visual appeal and personal meaning.