Alexandrite

    Alexandrite is the birthstone for the month of June and it represents the 45th and 55th wedding anniversaries.  It was discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains in 1830 on the birthday that Czar Alexander II was old enough to rule (hence the name).  The two colors, red and green, were the main colors of the Russian national banner in those days, inevitably making it the national stone of Tsaristic Russia.  Alexandrite is thought to assist one in centering the self, reinforcing self-esteem, and to broaden one's ability to experience joy.

    The most sensational feature about this stone is its surprising capability to change color.  Green in daylight, alexandrite changes its color to a soft shade of red, purplish-red, or purple-grey in candlelight or artificial light.  Thus, it displays a unique optical characteristic making it one of the most valuable gemstones of all, especially in fine qualities.

    Beautiful alexandrite in top quality is very rare and is hardly ever used in modern jewelry.  Alexandrite's rarity is due to its chemical composition.  It is basically a Chrysooberyl, a family consisting of the colorless or yellow Chrysoberyl, Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye, and color-changing alexandrite.  Two kinds of stones are required in the creation of Alexandrite: one of which contributes the elements aluminum and beryllium and one that contributes chrome.  However, these conditions are extremely rare.

    The more intense the color change, the more valuable the stone.  Its value depends mainly on the depth of the color change; a really fine alexandrite should show a vivid green in daylight and a change to purple-red or deep purple in artificial light without any trace of brown.  Fine alexandrite, especially ones over 1 carat in size, belong in the realm of the most expensive gemstones in the world.  Alexandrite's rareness is more than that of a fine ruby, sapphire, or emerald.  Moreover, if its origin is indisputably Russia, its value is increased.

    Alexandrite is a stone for experts and enthusiasts.  Its uniqueness and high value are not evident at first sight.  The mysterious color change will only occur when exposed to different light sources.  If you really get involved in alexandrite, you will be utterly fascinated by it.

    With a good hardness rating of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, alexandrite is an uncomplicated stone to wear. It is usually safe to use in an ultrasonic cleaner or a steamer unless noticeable clarity characteristics are present.

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