Alexandrite is a gemstone that defies the ordinary. Unlike most gemstones, which display a consistent color, alexandrite undergoes a mesmerizing transformation depending on the light source. In daylight, it appears green or bluish-green, while under incandescent light, it shifts to a striking red or purplish-red. This unique phenomenon, known as the “alexandrite effect,” has captivated gemologists and collectors for centuries. As one of the official birthstones for June, alexandrite is not only a symbol of the month but also a rare and valuable gemstone with deep historical and cultural significance.
This article explores the history, properties, symbolism, and care of alexandrite, drawing from a wealth of reliable information provided in the sources. We will examine how this gemstone was discovered, how it earned its place as a modern birthstone, and what makes it so special in the world of gemology.
History and Lore
Alexandrite’s history is as intriguing as the gemstone itself. The stone was first discovered in 1834 in the emerald mines of the Ural Mountains in Russia. At the time, miners believed they had unearthed emeralds due to the intense green color of the stones. However, one miner, the Finnish mineralogist Nils Nordenskiöld, noticed that the stones glowed red in the light of the campfire. The following morning, under natural light, the stones had returned to their green hue. This discovery marked the first known instance of a gemstone that could change color.
In honor of the discovery and to celebrate the 18th birthday of Russian Tzar Alexander II (1818–1881), the gemstone was named alexandrite. Given that red and green were the official military colors of imperial Russia, the gemstone quickly became a symbol of the Russian Empire. It was so highly regarded that it was declared the national gemstone of Russia, a status that reflected both its rarity and its symbolic connection to the imperial family.
Alexandrite remained a closely guarded secret for much of its early history, with most of the world unaware of its existence. This secrecy contributed to its mystique and made it one of the most coveted gemstones among Russian aristocrats. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, alexandrite had become a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, often used in the jewelry of the Russian royal family and other elite circles.
In 1912, the Jewelry Industry Council of America (now Jewelers of America) standardized the list of birthstones. At that time, pearl and moonstone were designated as June’s birthstones. However, in 1950, the council added alexandrite as a modern alternative for June, recognizing its unique properties and growing popularity. This addition reflected a broader trend in the jewelry industry to incorporate more diverse and exotic gemstones into traditional birthstone lists.
The historical significance of alexandrite is further enhanced by the rarity of the original Russian deposits. By the early 20th century, the Ural mines had been largely exhausted, and alexandrite had become even more valuable. Today, high-quality alexandrite is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world, with stones over one carat and with a strong color change being particularly rare and highly sought after.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl (BeAl₂O₄), which is composed of beryllium and aluminum. The color-changing property of alexandrite is due to the presence of chromium in its crystal structure. Chromium is responsible for the green color in daylight and the red color in incandescent light. This unique interaction with light is what gives alexandrite its chameleon-like qualities and makes it a highly prized gemstone.
The formation of alexandrite occurs in metamorphic rocks, particularly in areas where beryllium-rich minerals come into contact with aluminum-rich minerals under high temperature and pressure. This process is relatively rare, contributing to the scarcity of alexandrite. The original deposits in the Ural Mountains in Russia were the first to produce alexandrite, but over time, other sources have been discovered around the world.
Today, alexandrite is found in several countries, including Brazil, Burma (Myanmar), India, Madagascar, Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), Sri Lanka, and Zambia. Each of these locations produces alexandrite with slightly different characteristics. For example, Brazilian alexandrite tends to have a more pronounced color change, while Sri Lankan alexandrite may exhibit a less intense shift in color. Despite these variations, all alexandrite shares the same basic chemical composition and the same extraordinary ability to change color.
The rarity of alexandrite is further compounded by the difficulty of finding large, high-quality stones. Stones over one carat with a strong color change are extremely rare and command high prices in the gemstone market. In fact, alexandrite is considered one of the most valuable gemstones in the world, often rivaling the price of diamonds and other precious stones.
In addition to its rarity, alexandrite is also known for its durability. It has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, which makes it harder than emerald (which has a hardness of 7.5–8) and significantly harder than pearls and moonstone. This durability makes alexandrite a practical choice for jewelry, as it can withstand everyday wear and tear without easily scratching or breaking.
Gemological Properties
Alexandrite is distinguished by a set of unique gemological properties that make it one of the most fascinating and valuable gemstones in the world. Its most notable characteristic is the “alexandrite effect,” the phenomenon in which the gemstone changes color depending on the light source. This effect occurs because chromium in the crystal structure of alexandrite absorbs light in a specific way. In daylight, the chromium absorbs the red wavelengths of light, allowing the green wavelengths to pass through and be seen by the eye. Under incandescent light, the opposite occurs: the chromium absorbs the green wavelengths and allows the red wavelengths to pass through.
This color-changing ability is not unique to alexandrite, but the intensity and clarity of the change are what set it apart. While other gemstones may exhibit a subtle color shift under different lighting conditions, alexandrite’s transformation is dramatic and easily noticeable. For this reason, the alexandrite effect is often described as “emerald by day and ruby by night.” This poetic description captures the essence of what makes alexandrite so special.
In terms of physical properties, alexandrite has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, which places it between corundum (rubies and sapphires, which have a hardness of 9) and topaz (which has a hardness of 8). This hardness makes alexandrite a durable gemstone that can withstand regular wear without easily scratching or breaking. Unlike emeralds, which have cleavage planes that make them susceptible to chipping, alexandrite does not have cleavage, making it even more resilient.
The chemical composition of alexandrite is BeAl₂O₄, which is the same as other varieties of chrysoberyl, such as golden beryl and cymophane (which exhibits the cat’s eye effect). However, the presence of chromium in alexandrite is what gives it its unique color-changing properties. The concentration of chromium determines the intensity of the color change, with higher concentrations producing a more dramatic shift between green and red.
The rarity of alexandrite is further enhanced by the difficulty of finding large, high-quality stones. Stones over one carat with a strong color change are extremely rare and are considered among the most valuable gemstones in the world. In the gemstone market, alexandrite is often priced higher than diamonds and other precious stones due to its scarcity and desirability.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Alexandrite has long been associated with a range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. In Russian culture, it was considered a symbol of good fortune and protection. The aristocracy often wore alexandrite during important events, believing that the gemstone could bring prosperity and success. This belief was partly inspired by the gemstone’s connection to the imperial family, as its discovery coincided with the 18th birthday of Tzar Alexander II.
In modern times, alexandrite is still regarded as a symbol of transformation and adaptability. Its ability to change color in different lighting conditions is seen as a metaphor for personal growth and the ability to thrive in different environments. This symbolism makes alexandrite a popular choice for those born in June, as it represents the dynamic and versatile nature of individuals associated with this month.
Alexandrite is also believed to have healing properties. Some metaphysical traditions suggest that the gemstone can enhance mental clarity, improve decision-making, and promote emotional balance. It is said to be particularly effective for those who struggle with indecision or anxiety, as it is believed to help calm the mind and focus the thoughts.
In addition to its emotional and mental benefits, alexandrite is also associated with physical healing. Some alternative medicine practitioners believe that the gemstone can help with digestive issues, skin problems, and hormonal imbalances. While these claims are not supported by scientific evidence, they reflect the enduring cultural significance of alexandrite and its role in various healing traditions.
Alexandrite is also considered a protective stone, believed to ward off negative energy and attract positive vibrations. This belief is rooted in the idea that the gemstone’s ability to change color represents a dynamic balance between opposing forces. By wearing or carrying alexandrite, individuals are thought to be able to harness this energy and maintain harmony in their lives.
Care and Cleaning
Given its durability, alexandrite is a relatively easy gemstone to care for, but it does require some special attention to preserve its beauty and longevity. One of the key considerations in caring for alexandrite is its sensitivity to heat. While the gemstone is hard and resistant to scratches, it is not impervious to thermal shock. Sudden temperature changes can cause the stone to crack or become damaged. For this reason, it is advisable to avoid exposing alexandrite to extreme heat, such as prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or high-temperature environments.
Cleaning alexandrite can be done using a mild soap and warm water solution. A soft-bristled brush can be used to gently remove dirt and debris from the surface of the stone. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone’s surface. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for alexandrite, but it is recommended to consult with a professional jeweler before using this method, as some gemstones may be sensitive to ultrasonic vibrations.
When storing alexandrite jewelry, it is best to keep the gemstone separate from other gemstones to prevent scratches or damage. A soft cloth or a jewelry box with individual compartments can help protect the stone from contact with harder materials. It is also a good idea to store alexandrite in a cool, dry place to avoid exposure to humidity, which can potentially affect the stone’s appearance over time.
When wearing alexandrite jewelry, it is important to be mindful of activities that could cause physical damage to the gemstone. While alexandrite is durable, it is not indestructible. Avoid wearing alexandrite jewelry during activities that involve heavy physical contact, such as sports or manual labor. This will help ensure that the gemstone remains in excellent condition for years to come.
Conclusion
Alexandrite is a gemstone that combines beauty, rarity, and symbolism in a way that few other gemstones can match. Its ability to change color in different lighting conditions makes it one of the most fascinating and sought-after gemstones in the world. Discovered in the Ural Mountains in Russia in the 1830s, alexandrite quickly became a symbol of the Russian Empire and was named after Tzar Alexander II. Over time, it has become a popular choice for June birthdays, earning a place as a modern birthstone.
The gemological properties of alexandrite are as remarkable as its history. As a variety of chrysoberyl, it has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for everyday wear. Its color-changing ability is due to the presence of chromium in its crystal structure, which allows it to absorb light in a unique way. This phenomenon, known as the “alexandrite effect,” is what makes the gemstone so special and highly valued in the gemstone market.
Beyond its physical properties, alexandrite is also associated with a range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. In Russian culture, it was believed to bring good fortune and protection, while in modern times, it is seen as a symbol of transformation and adaptability. Some metaphysical traditions suggest that alexandrite can enhance mental clarity, improve decision-making, and promote emotional balance. These beliefs reflect the enduring cultural significance of the gemstone and its role in various healing traditions.
In terms of care and maintenance, alexandrite is relatively easy to clean and preserve. However, it is important to be mindful of its sensitivity to heat and to store it in a cool, dry place. By following these simple guidelines, individuals can ensure that their alexandrite jewelry remains in excellent condition for years to come.
As a June birthstone, alexandrite represents the dynamic and versatile nature of those born in this month. Its unique color-changing properties, combined with its rich history and cultural significance, make it a truly special gemstone. Whether worn as a symbol of personal growth, a source of protection, or simply as a stunning piece of jewelry, alexandrite continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and collectors around the world.