Alexandrite is a highly prized and relatively modern birthstone for the month of June, alongside pearl and moonstone. Distinguished by its remarkable ability to change color under different lighting conditions, alexandrite holds a unique place in the world of gemstones. Its history, though comparatively recent in terms of documented discovery, is intertwined with Russian royalty and Victorian-era jewelry. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this captivating gem, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
Unlike many gemstones with roots in ancient civilizations, alexandrite’s documented history began in the 19th century. The gemstone was first discovered in the 1800s by Nils Gustaf Nordenskiold, a French mineralogist, while mining in the Ural Mountains of Russia near the Tokovaya River. Initially mistaken for an emerald due to its green coloration, it was soon recognized as a distinct and previously unknown stone.
The gem was named alexandrite in honor of Alexander II, the Russian czar who reportedly came of age on the day of its discovery. The stone’s color-changing property – displaying green in daylight and red under incandescent light – was seen as a fitting tribute, mirroring the colors of the imperial Russian flag. Alexandrite quickly became popular among the Russian aristocracy and featured prominently in jewelry during the Victorian period.
In the mid-20th century, the Jewelry Industry Council of America added alexandrite as a recognized birthstone for June, initially to provide a more readily available alternative to pearls. While pearls remained a traditional choice, alexandrite offered a distinctive and increasingly sought-after option. The addition of moonstone further expanded the choices for those born in June.
Geological Formation and Sources
Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. The color change exhibited by alexandrite is due to its unique chemical composition and ability to absorb different wavelengths of light. This phenomenon, known as pleochroism, is responsible for the dramatic shift in color observed under varying light sources.
Historically, the primary source of alexandrite was the Ural Mountains in Russia. However, these deposits have largely been depleted. Today, alexandrite is found in several locations around the world, though high-quality specimens remain exceptionally rare. Sources include Brazil, Sri Lanka, East Africa (particularly Tanzania), and India. The quality of alexandrite varies depending on the location, with stones from certain regions exhibiting a more pronounced and desirable color change.
Gemological Properties
Alexandrite is a beryllium aluminum oxide mineral with the chemical formula BeAl₂O₄. It is a hard and durable gemstone, registering 8.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it suitable for use in various types of jewelry, including rings, pendants, and earrings.
The most defining characteristic of alexandrite is its color-changing ability. Ideally, an alexandrite will display a vivid green to bluish-green color in daylight or fluorescent light and transform into a deep red to purplish hue under incandescent light. The clarity of alexandrite can vary, with some stones exhibiting inclusions. Larger alexandrite stones, exceeding 5 carats, are particularly rare and valuable. Most alexandrite stones are typically found weighing less than 5 carats.
Here's a summary of key gemological properties:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Chrysoberyl (variety) |
| Chemical Formula | BeAl₂O₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8.5 |
| Color | Green to bluish-green (daylight), Red to purplish (incandescent) |
| Transparency | Transparent |
| Pleochroism | Strong |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Alexandrite is no exception. The stone’s color-changing nature has led to associations with balance, transformation, and good fortune.
In some traditions, alexandrite is believed to promote clarity of thought and emotional balance, particularly for those born under the zodiac sign of Gemini. For Scorpios, it is thought to enhance intuition and deepen spiritual insight. In Hindu astrology, alexandrite is considered a substitute for emerald and is believed to bring creativity and heightened awareness.
The dramatic color shift of alexandrite has also been likened to the complexities of love, representing its ability to present itself in different forms and shades. Presenting someone with alexandrite is considered a beautiful way to express affection and appreciation. Alexandrite is also believed to stimulate joy and inner strength.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness, alexandrite is a relatively durable gemstone. However, like all jewelry, it requires proper care to maintain its beauty and luster. Alexandrite should be cleaned regularly with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
It is also advisable to remove alexandrite jewelry before engaging in strenuous activities or when exposed to potentially damaging substances. Store alexandrite jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. Given its rarity and value, professional cleaning and inspection are recommended periodically.
Conclusion
Alexandrite stands as a remarkable gemstone, distinguished by its captivating color-changing ability and relatively recent discovery. From its origins in the Russian Ural Mountains to its current status as a coveted birthstone for June, alexandrite continues to fascinate and inspire. Its unique gemological properties, combined with its symbolic associations, make it a truly special and treasured gem. While its rarity and cost may place it beyond the reach of some, the allure of alexandrite – “emerald by day, ruby by night” – remains undeniable.