Alexandrite, a captivating and relatively modern addition to the world of gemstones, holds a unique place as a June birthstone. Distinguished by its remarkable ability to change color depending on the light source, this rare variety of chrysoberyl is often described as “emerald by day, ruby by night.” Its history is intertwined with Russian royalty, and its gemological properties contribute to its significant value and desirability. This article will explore the history, geological origins, properties, and symbolism of alexandrite, providing a comprehensive overview of this extraordinary gem.
History and Lore
The story of alexandrite begins in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 19th century. Discovered in April 1834 in emerald mines near the Tokovaya River, the stone initially fooled miners who believed they had unearthed more emeralds due to its intense green hue. It was Finnish mineralogist Nils Nordenskiöld who first recognized the gem’s unusual characteristic – its dramatic color shift when exposed to different light sources. He observed the stone glowing red in the light of a campfire, only to revert to green in the morning light. This observation confirmed the discovery of a new and remarkable gemstone.
The timing of the discovery proved significant. The stone was found around the same time as the coming of age of Alexander II, the future Czar of Russia. In honor of the royal figure, the gem was named alexandrite, and it quickly became the national stone of Tsarist Russia, embodying the colors of the Imperial flag – red and green.
While initially discovered in Russia, alexandrite has since been found in Brazil, Burma, India, Madagascar, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), Sri Lanka, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. However, the Russian alexandrites are often considered the standard for quality, with stones from other locations frequently exhibiting paler color changes. Alexandrite was officially added as a June birthstone in 1952, nearly a century after its initial discovery, alongside pearl and moonstone. Prior to this, pearl had been the sole birthstone for June. The addition of alexandrite and moonstone came about as more gems were discovered in the 18th to 20th centuries, prompting the National Association of Jewelers to update the birthstone list in 1912.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite belongs to the chrysoberyl mineral family, composed primarily of beryllium, aluminum, and oxygen. Its distinctive color-changing ability is attributed to the presence of chromium within its crystal structure. This element allows the stone to absorb different wavelengths of light depending on the source. In daylight, it appears bluish-green, while under incandescent light, it shifts to purplish-red. The precise combination of these elements under the right geological conditions is what makes alexandrite so rare.
The original and most highly prized alexandrite originated in the Ural Mountains of Russia. However, Russian production has diminished over time. Today, significant sources include Sri Lanka, Brazil, and East Africa. Alexandrite from these regions, while still beautiful, often displays less vivid color changes compared to the Russian stones. Mines are also located in Madagascar, Myanmar, and Zambia, contributing to the global supply of this exceptional gem.
Gemological Properties
Alexandrite possesses a unique combination of properties that contribute to its value and appeal. On the Mohs hardness scale, it registers an 8.5, making it softer than sapphire but harder than garnet. This relative durability makes it suitable for various jewelry settings, though care should still be taken to avoid scratches and damage.
The gem typically occurs in small sizes, with most stones weighing less than 5 carats. Larger, high-quality alexandrites are exceptionally rare and command premium prices. The intensity of the color change is the most important factor determining a stone’s value. A strong, distinct shift between green and red or purple is highly desirable.
Here's a summary of key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Chrysoberyl |
| Chemical Formula | BeAl₂O₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8.5 |
| Color | Green to Red/Purple |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index | 1.743 - 1.753 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, alexandrite has been imbued with various symbolic meanings. Its association with Russian royalty contributed to its image of nobility and good fortune. The stone’s color-changing ability has also been interpreted as a symbol of balance, transformation, and adaptability.
In terms of metaphysical beliefs, alexandrite is thought to strengthen intuition and creativity. Some believe it aids concentration and brings good omens to those who wear it. It is considered a stone of luck and prosperity, promoting self-confidence and inner growth. Alexandrite is also associated with the heart chakra, believed to foster emotional balance and healing.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, alexandrite is relatively durable, but still requires careful handling. It is susceptible to scratching from harder materials, so it should be stored separately from diamonds and other abrasive gemstones.
Cleaning alexandrite is best done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. Regular cleaning will help maintain the brilliance and beauty of this exceptional gem.
Conclusion
Alexandrite stands as a testament to the wonders of the natural world. Its unique color-changing ability, coupled with its fascinating history and relative rarity, makes it a highly sought-after gemstone. From its discovery in the Ural Mountains and its association with Russian royalty to its modern status as a June birthstone, alexandrite continues to captivate and inspire. Whether admired for its scientific properties, its historical significance, or its metaphysical attributes, this “emerald by day, ruby by night” gem remains a treasure for generations to come.