Alexandrite stands as one of the most remarkable and coveted gemstones in the world, celebrated for its dramatic color-changing ability and a history intertwined with Russian royalty. Designated as a modern birthstone for June, alongside pearl and moonstone, alexandrite’s rarity and unique optical properties contribute to its enduring appeal. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological characteristics, and lore surrounding this exceptional gem.
History and Lore
The story of alexandrite begins in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s. While some reports suggest earlier discoveries as far back as the late 1700s, the generally accepted account credits Russian miners with first uncovering the stone around 1833. Initially mistaken for emerald, the unusual gem was sent to Finnish mineralogist Nils Gustav Nordenskjold for evaluation. He discovered that the green stone exhibited a remarkable color change, revealing it to be a previously unknown mineral.
The discovery coincided with the birthday of Alexander II, the heir apparent to the Russian throne, and the gem was promptly named in his honor in 1834. This association with the future Czar, and later his reign marked by the emancipation of serfs in 1861, cemented alexandrite’s prestige. The gem’s colors – red and green – also mirrored the military colors of imperial Russia, further elevating its status as a national gemstone.
Beyond its royal connections, alexandrite quickly gained a reputation for bringing good fortune, love, and luck. It was often worn as an amulet, believed to enhance happiness, encourage romance, and promote emotional balance. Some believed it offered clarity of mind, improved communication skills, and even provided strength and awareness of the interconnectedness of nature. It was also thought to bring success in speculative endeavors. Alexandrite is still recognized as the traditional gift for a 55th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, formed under specific geological conditions. The formation of alexandrite requires the presence of beryllium and chromium, elements that rarely occur together in sufficient quantities. This unusual combination contributes significantly to the gem’s rarity.
Initially, Russia’s Ural Mountains were the primary source of alexandrite. However, these deposits were eventually exhausted. At the turn of the 20th century, alexandrite was discovered in Sri Lanka, though the material from this location typically exhibits a brownish-red hue in incandescent light, rather than the vivid plum-red seen in Russian stones.
Brazil became a significant source of alexandrite in 1987, and remains so today. While Brazilian alexandrite often displays a less dramatic color change than its Russian counterpart, it can still be quite pronounced. More recently, deposits have been found in Zimbabwe and India, but these have yielded only limited quantities. Experts believe that future discoveries of significant alexandrite deposits are unlikely due to the rare geological conditions required for its formation.
Gemological Properties
Alexandrite possesses a unique combination of gemological properties that contribute to its desirability. It registers 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear, including in rings. It also exhibits excellent toughness and lacks cleavage, meaning it is resistant to breaking when struck.
The most defining characteristic of alexandrite is its color-changing ability. In daylight or fluorescent light, it typically appears green to bluish-green. However, when exposed to incandescent light, it transforms to an intense red to purplish-red. This phenomenon is due to the way the gem absorbs and transmits light, influenced by its chromium content. The most prized alexandrite specimens exhibit a distinct and dramatic color change.
Alexandrite typically occurs in relatively small sizes, with most stones weighing less than 5 carats. Larger stones are exceptionally rare and command a premium price. In some cases, alexandrite can also exhibit chatoyancy, known as the cat’s-eye effect, when long, thin inclusions are oriented parallel to each other within the gem. This adds another layer of fascination to this already remarkable stone.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8.5 |
| Toughness | Excellent |
| Cleavage | None |
| Chemical Formula | BeAl₂O₄ |
| Color Change | Green to Red |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, alexandrite has been imbued with symbolic meaning. As previously mentioned, it was considered a stone of good fortune, love, and luck. Its association with Russian royalty further enhanced its prestige and symbolic value.
Beyond these historical beliefs, alexandrite is often associated with balance, self-esteem, and confidence. It is thought to encourage joy and provide hope to those facing despair. Some believe it enhances mental clarity, perception, and memory, while also improving communication skills.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness and toughness, alexandrite is a relatively durable gemstone. It can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally considered safe for alexandrite, though caution is always advised. As with any gemstone, it is best to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. An alexandrite engagement ring would be a unique and durable choice for a bride-to-be born in June.
Conclusion
Alexandrite remains a captivating gemstone, prized for its exceptional color-changing ability, historical significance, and enduring beauty. From its origins in the Ural Mountains of Russia to its modern status as a June birthstone, alexandrite continues to fascinate gem enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its rarity, combined with its unique optical properties and rich lore, ensures that alexandrite will remain one of the most sought-after and cherished gemstones for generations to come.