June is a month of warmth, growth, and renewal, and its birthstones reflect these qualities in their own unique ways. While pearls and moonstone offer timeless elegance and gentle iridescence, it is the June birthstone alexandrite that captures the imagination with its mesmerizing color-changing properties. Known as the “emerald by day, ruby by night,” alexandrite is a rare and captivating gemstone that has fascinated gemologists and jewelers alike for nearly two centuries. This article explores the historical significance, geological properties, and cultural symbolism of alexandrite, offering a comprehensive guide for those who wish to understand this extraordinary stone.
History and Lore
Alexandrite’s story begins in the Ural Mountains of Russia, where it was discovered in 1834. The gemstone was named after Tzar Alexander II, who was 16 years old at the time of its discovery. According to the sources, the gem was found in emerald mines near the Tokovaya River, where miners initially believed the stones were emeralds due to their vivid green color. It was Finnish mineralogist Nils Nordenskiöld who first noticed the stone’s unique color change under different lighting conditions. The source describes how he observed the stones glowing red in the light of a campfire, only to return to green the following morning under sunlight. This discovery marked the beginning of alexandrite’s journey into the world of gemology.
The gemstone quickly became a symbol of prestige and national pride in Russia, coinciding with the Tzar’s birthday on April 29. According to one source, Count L.A. Perovskii presented the gem to Alexander II as a birthday gift, further solidifying its status as a national treasure. The color change of alexandrite—red and green—mirrored the colors of the Russian military and imperial flags, adding to its symbolic significance. Alexander II was reportedly so fond of the gem that he wore an alexandrite ring as a talisman.
However, the sources also note that the exact details of alexandrite’s discovery are somewhat contested. Some accounts credit Russian mineralogist Count L.A. Perovskii, while others mention German mineralogy professor Gustav Rose or Ural Mine manager Vasilevich Kokovin. Despite these discrepancies, the gemstone’s association with Russia and its royal family remains a central part of its history.
By the late 19th century, the Russian mines had nearly been exhausted, and alexandrite was no longer readily available. This scarcity elevated the gemstone’s value and mystique. The gem was then discovered in other parts of the world, including Brazil in 1987, followed by Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. These new sources have helped to expand the availability of alexandrite, although high-quality stones with a strong color change remain extremely rare and valuable.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, which is also the same mineral that produces cat's-eye gemstones. The chemical formula for chrysoberyl is Al₂BeO₄, and it is known for its high hardness, which is ranked at 8.5 on the Mohs scale. What makes alexandrite so special, however, is the way it changes color depending on the light source. This phenomenon is known as pleochroism, a property that allows the gemstone to display different colors when viewed from different angles or under different types of light.
The color change in alexandrite is due to trace amounts of chromium in its crystal structure. In daylight or fluorescent light, the chromium absorbs certain wavelengths of light, causing the stone to appear green or greenish-blue. Under incandescent or candlelight, the same chromium ions absorb different wavelengths, resulting in a red or purplish hue. This dramatic color shift has made alexandrite one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
In terms of formation, alexandrite is typically found in metamorphic rocks, particularly in regions where beryllium-rich minerals are present. The Ural Mountains in Russia were the original source of alexandrite, but today the gem is also mined in Brazil, India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe. Each of these sources produces stones with slightly different characteristics, although Russian alexandrite is still considered the most valuable due to its historical significance and the intensity of its color change.
The rarity of alexandrite is further compounded by the fact that large, high-quality stones are extremely difficult to find. Most alexandrite stones are under 5 carats in weight, and those with a strong color change are considered among the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world. The sources indicate that stones over one carat with a vivid color change can command extremely high prices in the gem market.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of alexandrite are both fascinating and complex. As a type of chrysoberyl, alexandrite shares several characteristics with its parent mineral, including high hardness and a refractive index that ranges from 1.74 to 1.78. These properties make alexandrite a durable gemstone that is suitable for everyday wear, although its rarity and value often mean it is used in more specialized or collector’s pieces.
One of the most notable features of alexandrite is its pleochroism, which is the ability to show different colors when viewed from different angles. This effect is most pronounced in alexandrite and is the reason for its famous “emerald by day, ruby by night” description. The color change is not just a visual trick—it is a scientifically verified property that has made alexandrite a favorite among gemologists and collectors.
Alexandrite also has a high dispersion, which means it can refract light into a spectrum of colors, creating a fiery sparkle when cut and polished. This, combined with its color-changing ability, makes alexandrite a truly unique gemstone. However, the sources note that the intensity of the color change can vary depending on the quality and cut of the stone. Stones with a strong color change are highly prized, while those with a less pronounced effect are considered lower in value.
In terms of clarity, alexandrite is generally found in transparent to slightly included specimens. Inclusions are often small and do not detract from the stone’s beauty, especially when the color change is strong. The sources also mention that alexandrite is typically cut in a variety of styles, including brilliant cuts, cushion cuts, and step cuts, depending on the shape and size of the rough crystal.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its gemological properties, alexandrite holds a rich symbolic and metaphysical significance. In Russian culture, alexandrite was associated with good fortune and protection, particularly for those born in June. The gemstone was believed to bring strength and vitality to the wearer, and it was also associated with love and transformation. The sources note that the color change of alexandrite was often interpreted as a metaphor for the duality of life—light and dark, joy and sorrow, and the changing seasons.
In other cultures, alexandrite has been linked to emotional balance and intuition. Some sources suggest that the gemstone is believed to enhance mental clarity and emotional stability, making it a popular choice for those seeking to improve their decision-making abilities or deepen their spiritual awareness. The stone is also associated with creativity and inspiration, making it a favored gemstone among artists and writers.
One particularly intriguing belief is that alexandrite can act as a warning sign. According to some historical accounts, the gem was thought to change color in the presence of danger, serving as a kind of natural alarm. While this belief is not supported by scientific evidence, it has contributed to the gem’s aura of mystery and allure.
In modern times, alexandrite is often used in jewelry as a symbol of personal transformation and resilience. The gem’s ability to shift from red to green is seen as a reflection of the wearer’s own journey through life—navigating challenges and embracing new opportunities. For many, alexandrite represents the idea that change is not only inevitable but also beautiful and empowering.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its high hardness and durability, alexandrite is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. However, its rarity and value mean that it should be handled with care to avoid damage. The gemstone should be cleaned regularly to maintain its brilliance and luster. A soft brush, mild soap, and lukewarm water are generally sufficient for cleaning alexandrite. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe to use, provided the gemstone does not have any inclusions that could be affected by vibrations.
Alexandrite should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches, especially from harder stones like diamonds or corundum. It is also advisable to avoid exposing alexandrite to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals, as these can affect its color and clarity over time. When wearing alexandrite jewelry, it is best to remove it during activities that involve physical contact or exposure to abrasive materials.
For those who are not familiar with the gemstone, it is important to understand that alexandrite’s color change can be subtle and may not be immediately apparent. The best way to observe the full range of colors is to view the stone under both natural daylight and incandescent light. This can be done by holding the gem up to a window and then switching to an indoor light source.
Conclusion
Alexandrite is a gemstone of extraordinary beauty and complexity, with a history that spans centuries and a symbolism that resonates with people across cultures. From its discovery in the Russian Urals to its modern-day availability in Brazil and other parts of the world, alexandrite has captivated gemologists, jewelers, and collectors alike. Its unique color-changing property, combined with its high hardness and durability, makes it a prized addition to any jewelry collection.
For those born in June, alexandrite is more than just a birthstone—it is a symbol of transformation, resilience, and the beauty of change. Whether worn as a personal talisman or given as a meaningful gift, alexandrite carries with it a rich legacy that continues to inspire and intrigue. As we have seen, the gemstone’s journey from a rare mineral in the Ural Mountains to a globally recognized birthstone is a testament to its enduring appeal and timeless elegance.