Alexandrite is a rare and precious gemstone that has captured the attention of jewelry enthusiasts and gemstone collectors for over a century. Named after the Russian Tsar Alexander II, Alexandrite is known for its unique color-changing properties, which make it one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
In this article, we'll delve into the history of Alexandrite, explore its unique properties, and take a closer look at its use in jewelry.
History of Alexandrite
Alexandrite was first discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains in 1834 by French mineralogist Nils Gustaf Nordenskiöld. The gemstone was named after Tsar Alexander II of Russia, who was still a prince at the time of the discovery.
Initially, Alexandrite was considered a minor gemstone due to its limited availability. However, its rarity and unique properties soon earned it a place among the most valuable gemstones in the world.
The finest Alexandrite gemstones come from Russia and are highly prized by collectors. However, Alexandrite has also been found in other parts of the world, including Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa.
Properties of Alexandrite
What sets Alexandrite apart from other gemstones is its color-changing ability. In daylight, Alexandrite appears green or bluish-green, but under incandescent light, it takes on a reddish-purple hue.
This color change is due to the presence of chromium in the crystal structure of the gemstone. Chromium absorbs light in different ways depending on the wavelength of the light, which causes the color change.
In addition to its color-changing ability, Alexandrite is also known for its strong pleochroism, which means that it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
Alexandrite is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, which has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds.
Uses of Alexandrite in Jewelry
Due to its rarity and unique properties, Alexandrite is highly valued in the world of jewelry. The gemstone is often used in rings, necklaces, and earrings, and is particularly popular for engagement rings.
Alexandrite is often paired with diamonds and other precious gemstones to create striking and unique jewelry pieces. It is also a popular choice for collectors who appreciate the rarity and beauty of this unique gemstone.
Conclusion
Alexandrite is a rare and valuable gemstone with a fascinating history and unique properties. Its color-changing ability and strong pleochroism make it one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world, and it is highly prized by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.
Whether you are looking to add an Alexandrite piece to your jewelry collection or simply want to learn more about this unique gemstone, Alexandrite is a true marvel of nature that continues to capture the imagination of people around the world.