June’s birthstone, alexandrite, is a gemstone of remarkable transformation and deep historical significance. Known for its ability to shift color from blue-green in daylight to a rich red or purple in incandescent light, alexandrite is a captivating jewel that has enchanted collectors, jewelers, and gem lovers for centuries. As the June birthstone featured by James Avery, a renowned family-owned jewelry brand rooted in craftsmanship and storytelling, alexandrite is more than just a gemstone—it is a symbol of meaningful design and lasting value.
This article delves into the properties, history, and cultural relevance of alexandrite, with a particular emphasis on its role as the June birthstone in the context of James Avery’s artisan jewelry. Drawing from the brand’s dedication to creating meaningful pieces and the gemstone’s unique characteristics, we explore what makes alexandrite a standout jewel and how it continues to inspire new generations of jewelry lovers.
History and Lore
Alexandrite was first discovered in the early 1830s in the Ural Mountains of Russia. Its name honors Alexander II, the heir to the Russian throne at the time, whose birthday fell on the day of the gemstone’s discovery. This serendipitous timing added to the gemstone’s allure and contributed to its early fame in European courts.
The gemstone’s most notable feature is its color change, a property that made it a favorite among royalty and nobility. The blue-green hue in daylight and the ruby-like red under warm light symbolized both the sun and the stars, making it a gemstone of duality and mystery. This unique characteristic also led to a belief in alexandrite’s mystical properties—many cultures attributed protective and healing powers to it, seeing it as a stone that could bring strength, clarity, and emotional balance.
James Avery, a family-owned jewelry brand founded in 1954, has embraced alexandrite as the June birthstone in its collections. The company is known for creating jewelry that carries meaning and stories, and alexandrite fits this philosophy perfectly. The gemstone’s transformation from one hue to another mirrors the idea of change and growth, values that resonate deeply with the brand’s mission.
James Avery’s founder, James Avery, believed that jewelry should be more than just a decorative item—it should carry meaning and significance. This philosophy continues today with the brand’s June birthstone jewelry, which often includes alexandrite in elegant designs that celebrate life’s milestones, from anniversaries to birthdays.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, a beryllium-aluminum oxide (BeAl₂O₄). What sets alexandrite apart is its trace amounts of chromium, which give it the color-changing effect. This effect, known as the alexandrite effect, is caused by the selective absorption of light wavelengths and the way the gemstone reflects light under different conditions.
The gemstone’s hardness is quite high, ranking 8.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, making it suitable for daily wear in fine jewelry. Despite its durability, alexandrite is relatively rare in nature, which adds to its value. Natural alexandrite is primarily found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar, though it was originally discovered in Russia.
James Avery offers lab-created alexandrite in its June birthstone jewelry. Lab-created gemstones are grown under controlled conditions to replicate the chemical and physical properties of their natural counterparts. This process ensures that the gemstone retains the same brilliance, color change, and hardness as natural alexandrite but is more accessible and affordable for jewelry consumers.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of alexandrite is essential for appreciating its beauty and value. Here are some key characteristics of alexandrite:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | BeAl₂O₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 8.5 |
| Color | Changes from blue-green in daylight to red or purple in incandescent light |
| Refractive Index | 1.74 to 1.78 |
| Luster | Vitreous (glassy) |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cleavage | None or very poor |
| Specific Gravity | 3.71 to 3.75 |
These properties make alexandrite a durable and visually striking gemstone. Its color change is particularly fascinating, as it is not just a play of light but a true transformation of hue. This effect occurs because the chromium in the gemstone absorbs light in the yellow and green regions of the spectrum, reflecting different colors depending on the lighting conditions.
James Avery’s June birthstone jewelry often features alexandrite in settings that highlight its color change. Whether in a ring, pendant, or charm, the gemstone is positioned to catch the light in a way that showcases its transformation.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Alexandrite has long been associated with a range of symbolic and metaphysical meanings. In ancient times, it was believed to bring good fortune, protection, and emotional stability. Many cultures saw it as a stone that could help bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual worlds, making it a popular choice for meditation and healing practices.
One of the most enduring beliefs about alexandrite is that it can enhance emotional well-being and promote balance. It is often recommended for individuals who are going through significant life changes or transitions, as its color-changing property is seen as a metaphor for adaptability and resilience.
In the context of James Avery’s jewelry, alexandrite is often incorporated into pieces that commemorate meaningful events. For example, a June birthstone ring with alexandrite can serve as a reminder of the strength and transformation that come with growing older. The gemstone is also used in keepsake jewelry, where its symbolism of change and renewal aligns with the idea of preserving memories.
While these metaphysical beliefs are not scientifically proven, they reflect the cultural and historical significance of alexandrite. Whether worn for its beauty, its meaning, or its rarity, alexandrite continues to captivate and inspire.
Care and Cleaning
Given its hardness and durability, alexandrite is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. However, because it is often set in fine jewelry, it is important to handle and clean it with care to maintain its appearance and longevity.
Here are some general guidelines for caring for alexandrite jewelry:
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Alexandrite should not be exposed to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the gemstone or its setting. Avoid using household cleaners, perfumes, and cosmetics while wearing alexandrite jewelry.
Use Gentle Cleaning Methods: A mild soap solution and a soft cloth are sufficient for cleaning alexandrite. Soak the jewelry in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for a few minutes, then gently wipe it with a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can cause damage.
Store Properly: Store alexandrite jewelry in a soft pouch or a jewelry box to prevent scratches and damage. If multiple pieces are stored together, ensure they are separated to avoid contact.
Avoid Excessive Heat and Light: While alexandrite is generally stable under normal conditions, it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to strong light or heat, which can cause fading or discoloration over time.
James Avery’s June birthstone jewelry is designed with care and durability in mind. The brand recommends following these guidelines to ensure that alexandrite jewelry remains beautiful and lasts for generations.
Conclusion
Alexandrite is a gemstone of extraordinary beauty and significance, and its role as the June birthstone is a testament to its enduring appeal. From its historical discovery in the Ural Mountains to its modern-day presence in James Avery’s collections, alexandrite continues to captivate with its color-changing effect and symbolic meaning.
As the June birthstone, alexandrite represents transformation, strength, and the ability to adapt. Whether worn as a ring, pendant, or charm, it serves as a meaningful reminder of life’s journey and the beauty that comes with change.
James Avery’s dedication to creating jewelry with meaning aligns perfectly with the spirit of alexandrite. Through its June birthstone collection, the brand offers a way to celebrate this remarkable gemstone and the stories it can tell. Whether as a gift or a personal keepsake, alexandrite jewelry is a timeless tribute to the power of nature, artistry, and emotion.