Alexandrite – The Gemstone for June Birthstone Jewelry
Alexandrite, which is used in June birthstone jewelry, is one of the uncommonest of gems to be found on the earth. It is recognized as the June birthstone and is the gemstone used to mark the 45th and 55th wedding anniversaries. It belongs to the chrysoberyl family and is formed from a combination of Aluminum, Iron, Titanium, Chromium and chrysoberyl mineral.
Alexandrite's Color Changing Properties
This June birthstone is highly admired because of it's capacity to radically switch colors. Compared to other gem such as sapphires and diamond, alexandrite is a fairly novel gemstone to the market, having only been discovered around 150 years ago. The Alexandrite precious stone was first found in the Russian Ural Mountains during the early part of the nineteenth century and was named after Czar Alexander II, the Emperor of Russian. This precious stone was dubbed with the name “magic gem” because of it's mystical display of colors.
A Description of Alexandrite the June Birthstone
The color of this gem depends on the the wavelength of light and the chemical bonds that exist in the gem. In natural light alexandrite displays a a color that is blue green like moss but when placed under lamp or candle light this color transforms to a warm raspberry tone. This transformation is referred to as the alexandrite effect. It's a result of the chemical blending of chrysoberyl, which is a rare oxide mineral, and chromium. Alexandrite gets it's colors from chromium.
Alexandrite Gemstone Quality
It's essential to take into account the strength of the color change when valuing an alexandrite. The gemstone is thought to be rare and of higher value if the color change is more complete and deep. A further aspect to think about is the cutting quality of the gem and it's clarity. Alexandrites that are found in Russia are believed to be of better color and quality, consequently making them more valuable. Nearly all the alexandrites on sale are below 1 carat because bigger sizes are too expensive by nearly everyone.
Looking after Your Alexandrite Jewels
it's essential to keep alexandrites away from extreme heat exposure because this can affect their ability to change color. When cleaning these gems warm, soapy water may be used or alcohol or a specially made jewelry cleaning solution. If ultrasonic or steam cleaning are required suitably experienced jewelers ought to be used.
Sources of Alexandrite
The original origin of alexandrite in Russia has now virtually run out, however the mines are still open and turn out a small number of carats each year. Currently there are two chief sources of alexandrite gemstones, Brazil and Sri Lanka (Ceylon). In the 1990’s Alexandrite gemstones were also found in countries such as Madagascar, India, Burma and Zimbabwe. Regrettably, none of these locations has managed to produce as vibrant and rich colors as the gems found in Russia. Gems from these locations have their own uniqueness: such as the greyish undertones of stones from Sri Lanka and Brazil stones having yellow tones on the green color.
Conclusion
Despite the comparatively short history of this lovely stone it's already been attributed with a mixture of mystical and magical properties. It's an uncommon and stunning gemstone and makes a magnificent June birthstone jewelry gift for a cherished one with a June birthday.
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Tags: alexandrite birthstone, birthstone jewelry, june birthstone, june birthstone jewelry
