Alexandrite, the June birthstone, stands apart in the world of gemstones due to its rare and mesmerizing color-changing properties. As one of the most captivating stones in the birthstone calendar, it is both a scientific marvel and a symbol of transformation and balance. This article delves into the geological, historical, and cultural significance of alexandrite, particularly as it is celebrated and crafted by James Avery, a renowned family-owned jewelry company based in Texas.
From its discovery in the early 19th century to its modern-day use in elegant jewelry pieces, alexandrite carries a rich history that connects it to both the past and the present. This article explores the gemstone’s origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care, drawing from verified sources provided by James Avery. It also highlights how the company has incorporated alexandrite into its collections, honoring the gemstone’s legacy while continuing the tradition of creating meaningful, artisan-crafted jewelry.
History and Lore
Alexandrite was first discovered in the early 1830s in the Ural Mountains of Russia. It was named in honor of Alexander II, the future emperor of Russia, whose birthday coincided with the gemstone’s discovery. The gem was a fitting tribute to the young heir, symbolizing prosperity and hope for the future.
The gemstone gained immediate popularity in Russian society, especially among the nobility, due to its rarity and its unique ability to change color depending on the type of light it is viewed under. It shifts from a greenish-blue hue in daylight to a deep red or purplish-red under incandescent light, a phenomenon that fascinated jewelers and collectors alike.
In the 20th century, natural alexandrite became increasingly scarce due to the exhaustion of the original Russian mines. As a result, laboratory-created alexandrite emerged as a more accessible and affordable alternative, while still retaining the same optical properties as its natural counterpart. This development allowed for a broader audience to enjoy and appreciate the gemstone, including those who might not have had the means to acquire a rare natural specimen.
James Avery, a family-owned jewelry company, has embraced the alexandrite gemstone as a central part of its June birthstone collection. The company values the gemstone not only for its beauty but also for the meaning it carries. As stated in their mission, James Avery believes that jewelry should have meaning—pieces that tell a story or commemorate a special moment. Alexandrite, with its shifting colors and historical significance, is an ideal choice for creating meaningful jewelry that captures the essence of a June birthday or a cherished memory.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. What sets it apart is its color-changing ability, which is due to the presence of trace amounts of chromium. This element causes the stone to absorb and reflect light in different ways depending on the light source. Under natural daylight or fluorescent lighting, alexandrite appears green or bluish-green, while under incandescent or candlelight, it shifts to a red or purplish-red hue.
The gemstone ranks 8.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, which means it is relatively durable and suitable for use in everyday jewelry. However, due to its rarity in nature, most of the alexandrite used in modern jewelry is lab-created. Lab-created alexandrite is chemically identical to its natural counterpart and is grown under controlled conditions to produce gem-quality stones with the same optical properties.
James Avery uses lab-created alexandrite in its June birthstone jewelry, ensuring that customers can enjoy the beauty and symbolism of the gemstone without the high cost associated with natural alexandrite. This approach also supports ethical and sustainable practices in the gemstone industry.
Gemological Properties
To understand the allure of alexandrite, it is important to examine its gemological properties in detail. Here is a summary of its key characteristics:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | BeAl₂O₄ |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 8.5 |
| Refractive Index | 1.74–1.76 |
| Color | Changes from green/blue in daylight to red/purple in incandescent light |
| Luster | Vitreous (glassy) |
| Specific Gravity | 3.73–3.77 |
| Cleavage | Indistinct |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Origin | Russia (natural), Laboratory (synthetic) |
These properties make alexandrite not only a beautiful gemstone but also one that is well-suited for jewelry. Its high hardness allows it to withstand daily wear, while its unique color-changing property makes it stand out in any collection.
James Avery’s use of lab-created alexandrite ensures that the gemstone is both ethically sourced and of consistent quality. The company’s commitment to craftsmanship means that each piece is designed to highlight the gemstone’s natural beauty and symbolic significance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, alexandrite has been associated with various meanings and metaphysical properties. In ancient times, it was believed to bring good fortune, balance, and emotional stability. The gemstone’s ability to change color under different light conditions has led to its association with adaptability and transformation.
In modern times, alexandrite is often linked to themes of renewal, harmony, and clarity. It is said to promote mental clarity, encourage emotional healing, and support the wearer in navigating life’s changes. These qualities make it a fitting choice for a birthstone, as it symbolizes the growth and transitions that often accompany the passage of time.
James Avery’s use of alexandrite in its June birthstone jewelry reflects these themes. The company’s pieces are designed to honor special moments, such as anniversaries, birthdays, or the birth of a child. By incorporating alexandrite into these designs, they create pieces that not only celebrate life’s milestones but also offer a sense of continuity and hope for the future.
Care and Cleaning
Given its high hardness and durability, alexandrite is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. However, there are a few precautions that should be taken to ensure its longevity and brilliance.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Alexandrite should not be exposed to harsh chemicals, as this can damage its surface or affect its color-changing properties.
- Avoid High Temperatures: While alexandrite is heat-resistant, it should not be exposed to extreme temperatures, as this can cause internal stress or discoloration.
- Use Gentle Cleaning Methods: The best way to clean alexandrite is with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can be too harsh for the gemstone.
- Store Properly: When not in use, alexandrite should be stored in a soft pouch or box to prevent scratches from other jewelry.
James Avery emphasizes the importance of proper care and maintenance in its customer guidelines. They provide detailed instructions on how to clean and store their jewelry, ensuring that customers can enjoy their pieces for years to come.
Conclusion
Alexandrite, with its captivating color-changing properties and rich historical legacy, is a gemstone that continues to inspire awe and admiration. As the June birthstone, it serves as a symbol of transformation, adaptability, and the beauty of life’s changing moments. Through its use of lab-created alexandrite, James Avery has made this extraordinary gemstone more accessible to a wider audience, allowing people to celebrate the significance of a June birthday or a cherished memory with meaningful, handcrafted jewelry.
The company’s commitment to creating jewelry with both beauty and meaning ensures that each piece is not just an ornament but a lasting tribute to the stories and emotions it represents. Whether worn as a personal keepsake or given as a gift, alexandrite jewelry carries with it a sense of connection, history, and significance that transcends time.