Alexandrite : A birthstone of June
As the title suggests Alexandrite gemstone is the birthstone of people born in June. It is named after the king Alexander II. It is an anniversary gift for 45 and 55th marriage anniversary. It looks green in color in daylight whereas dark purple in artificial light. Alexandrite was discovered in the late 19th century in Russia. These days it is difficult to find natural Alexandrite gemstones. Major varieties of Alexandrite Gemstones are found in heated or treated form. The major mines producing Alexandrite gemstone are located in Burma.
Color change in Alexandrite
There are not many gemstones with a color changing property. Color changing quality of Alexandrite gemstone is very significant. The color actually changes from bluish green to purplish red. Alexandrite belongs to the Chrysoberyl family. Among all the members of Chrysoberyl family, Alexandrite is identified because of its color change property. The color change has to do with the spectrum theory. Blue green and purple red colors are equally transmitted and hence color changes according to daylight or artificial light.
Discovery and Information of Alexandrite gemstone
Late in the 19th Century, Alexandrite gemstones were found in the Ural region of Russia. That was the only resource of Alexandrite and hence people started getting these stones from Russia. And hence it is a rare variety and thus an important and valuable gemstone. Later on mines were also found in various regions worldwide such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Brazil etc. According to recent analysis real Alexandrite is very difficult to find. The Russian Alexandrite gemstones are kept reserved in museums. Sometimes this gemstone is so highly priced that it becomes more expensive than diamonds and sapphires. There is a huge demand in the Jewelry market since it is rarely available. Among the various jewelry item alexandrite rings are very special. Alexandrite gemstone is believed to boost the self-esteem of a person. In today’s market, India ranks among top positions in the production of Alexandrite gemstones, but the USA is the largest market.
Buying guide for Alexandrite Gemstone
While buying any gemstone, make sure that you get a certificate along with the gemstone. The certificate should be authenticated by a good Gemology department. The certificate should consist of all details that should uniquely identify the gemstone. While selecting an alexandrite have a look over the color of the gemstone. If it changes color then it is the best quality Alexandrite.
