Alexandrite stands as a uniquely captivating gemstone, recognized as a primary birthstone for June alongside pearl and moonstone. Its allure stems from a remarkable optical phenomenon – a distinct color change depending on the light source. This characteristic, coupled with its relative rarity, has cemented its place as a treasured gem with a fascinating history and enduring symbolism. Alexandrite is often described as “emerald by day and ruby by night,” a testament to its dramatic transformation from a green or bluish-green hue in daylight to a reddish-purple or raspberry tone under incandescent light.
History and Lore
The story of alexandrite’s discovery is closely intertwined with Russian royalty. While some reports suggest potential findings as early as the late 1700s, the generally accepted account places its initial discovery in the Ural Mountains of Russia around 1833. Miners initially mistook the stone for emerald, but Finnish mineralogist Nils Gustav Nordenskjold identified it as a distinct and previously unknown gem.
In 1834, the gemstone was officially named in honor of Alexander II, the heir apparent to the Russian throne, coinciding with his sixteenth birthday. Alexander II later became Czar of Russia in 1855 and is remembered for emancipating the country’s serfs. The gem’s connection to the Czars significantly enhanced its prestige, and its red and green coloration mirrored the imperial Russian military colors, further solidifying its status as a national gemstone.
Initially, Russian alexandrite was considered the standard for quality, exhibiting a clear color change from green to red. However, as deposits were exhausted, alexandrite began to be sourced from other locations, including Sri Lanka, Brazil, Tanzania, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and Burma. Alexandrite was once considered more abundant than pearls, leading to its adoption as a birthstone, but this is no longer the case, as high-quality alexandrite is now exceptionally rare and costly.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Its unique color-changing ability is attributed to the presence of chromium ions within its crystal structure, a rare geological occurrence. The combination of beryllium, aluminum, and chromium under specific conditions is what creates this extraordinary gem.
While the original and most highly prized alexandrite originated in Russia’s Ural Mountains, today, the gem is found in several locations worldwide. Brazilian alexandrite often displays a teal or deep bluish-green color in daylight, shifting to a deep rich purple under incandescent light. Stones from Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and Burma also yield alexandrite, though their color characteristics can vary. Knowledgeable gemologists can often identify a stone’s origin based on its specific color combination, as the geology of the deposit influences the gem’s appearance.
Gemological Properties
Alexandrite possesses a unique combination of properties that contribute to its value and desirability. Its hardness measures 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it softer than sapphire but harder than garnet. This durability makes it suitable for various jewelry applications, including engagement rings.
The most defining characteristic of alexandrite is its color-changing ability. This phenomenon, known as the “Alexandrite effect,” is caused by the gem’s interaction with light. In daylight or fluorescent light, it appears green or bluish-green. Under incandescent light, it transforms into a reddish-purple or raspberry hue. The completeness of this color change directly impacts the stone’s value; the more dramatic and distinct the shift, the more valuable the gem.
Most alexandrite stones are relatively small, typically weighing less than 5 carats. Larger stones are exceptionally rare and command significantly higher prices. The chemical formula for alexandrite is BeAl₂O₄ with chromium impurities.
Here's a table summarizing key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Chrysoberyl |
| Chemical Formula | BeAl₂O₄ (with Cr) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8.5 |
| Color Change | Green/Blue-Green to Red/Purple |
| Typical Size | Under 5 carats |
| Luster | Vitreous |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, alexandrite has been associated with various symbolic meanings. Its connection to Russian royalty imbued it with connotations of nobility, power, and good fortune. The gem’s color change has also been interpreted symbolically, representing balance, transformation, and adaptability.
As a June birthstone, alexandrite is believed to bring luck and prosperity to those born in that month. It is also the recognized gift for the 55th wedding anniversary, symbolizing enduring love and commitment. While specific metaphysical beliefs vary, alexandrite is often associated with promoting intuition, creativity, and self-confidence.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, alexandrite is relatively durable, but it still requires careful handling and cleaning. It is susceptible to scratching from harder materials, so it should be stored separately from diamonds and other abrasive gemstones.
Cleaning alexandrite can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. After cleaning, rinse the gem thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. Regular cleaning will help maintain alexandrite’s brilliance and preserve its beauty for generations.
Conclusion
Alexandrite remains one of the most extraordinary and sought-after gemstones in the world. Its captivating color-changing ability, coupled with its rich history and relative rarity, has secured its place as a treasured birthstone for June and a symbol of enduring beauty and good fortune. From its origins in the Russian Ural Mountains to its modern-day sources in Sri Lanka, Brazil, and beyond, alexandrite continues to fascinate and inspire gem enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology alike. Its unique properties and captivating lore ensure that alexandrite will remain a cherished gem for years to come.