Properties
| Family | Chrysoberyl |
| Chemistry | BeAl2O4 |
| Refractive Index | 1.746 - 1.763 |
| Birefringence | .009 - .010 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.70 - 3.78 |
| Hardness | 8.5 (Moh's Scale) |
| Color Range | Golden-yellow, green-yellow, green, brownish, red |
Romance, History & Lore
In gemology, the term phenomenon refers to a gemstone’s remarkable ability to produce extraordinary displays of beauty due to the unique ways light interacts with its chemical makeup or physical structure. One prime example is the gemstone alexandrite. This precious stone is renowned for its remarkable ability to exhibit a green hue in daylight and transform into a plum-red shade in the warm tones of firelight or candlelight (incandescent) in the evening.
Discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountain range in 1833 and named after the Russian Czar Alexander II, alexandrite has since been cherished as one of the rarest and most prized gemstones.
Origins
For centuries, Russia remained the only source of alexandrite until deposits were discovered in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan alexandrite appears green in daylight but more of a brownish red than plum red in incandescent light. With the discovery of alexandrite in 1997, Brazil has become a significant source of alexandrite on the market. While the color change is not as dramatic as some of the finer Russian alexandrite, it is can still be very pronounced.
India also produces a limited amount of alexandrite and gemologists are hopeful for future alexandrite discoveries in East Africa, Australia, and Asia. However, because the geographic conditions that produce alexandrite are so unusual, experts generally agree that future discoveries are unlikely.
Enhancement
Care
Alexandrite is not temperamental gemstone, but because of its value, it should be diligently cared for. To clean alexandrite jewelry at home, use a soft brush and a solution of warm and gentle dish detergent. Clean the gemstone thoroughly to remove any dirt or oils that can affect the gemstones brilliance.
Selecting a Gemstone
A genuine alexandrite gemstone is a prized addition to any jewelry collection. With a hardness rating of 8.5, alexandrite stands as one of the most durable gemstones, surpassed only by diamond, ruby, and sapphire. Its enduring nature and extreme rarity make it an exceptional choice for significant pieces like engagement rings or heirloom jewelry.
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View Other Gemstones
