Discover the origins and meaning of this rare, color-changing gemstone
Most people are familiar with popular gemstones like diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds. Even quartz, topaz and opals. But some may be less familiar with the rare, beautiful, color-shifting gemstone known as alexandrite. If alexandrite is new to you, get ready to quickly fall in love with this mysterious, mesmerizing gemstone. Read on to learn the origins and meaning of alexandrite and its color-changing qualities.
What is alexandrite?
First discovered in Europe and Asia in 1830, alexandrite is a rare form of chrysoberyl, a greenish or yellowish-green mineral consisting of an oxide of the elements beryllium and aluminum. When formed with trace amounts of chromium or vanadium, alexandrite is created.
Alexandrite was first mistaken as an emerald. However, it was quickly noted that this gemstone had remarkable hardness (tougher than emerald on the Mohs hardness scale!) and seemed to change color depending on the light under which it was being observed (more on this fascinating quality ahead!). Often recovered while mining for other gemstones like emeralds and corundum (rubies and sapphires), alexandrite was named after Russian Czar Alexander II, quickly leading people to associate the semi-precious gemstone with royalty and wealth.
Although alexandrite can be found in many sizes, gems greater than two carats are considered large in the world of alexandrite. And those that weigh over five carats are incredibly rare. But bigger isn’t always better when it comes to alexandrite. Because trace amounts of chromium or vanadium cause the color-changing quality of alexandrite, these trace elements in larger gems may be unevenly distributed, resulting in a less pronounced change of color.
Alexandrite meaning
Many gemstones and types of jewelry bring with them certain meanings or associations. Diamonds, for instance, represent love and purity, and rubies are associated with passion and energy. Alexandrite is often associated with qualities like strength and emotional balance. Some also believe the gemstone can increase mental clarity and memory and enhance communication skills. Alexandrite is also often associated with transformation, such as moving from one stage of life to another, likely due to its color-shifting qualities. Lastly, many believe alexandrite can bring good luck and prosperity because of its early connection to royalty.
What color is alexandrite?
The answer to this question really depends on what time of day it is or the light being used to view the gem since this semi-precious gem is a chameleon like its beryl cousin! Sometimes referred to as “emerald by day, ruby by night,” alexandrite can change color depending on the light under which it is being observed. For example, when viewed in sunlight, which includes more green and blue light than red, the gemstone cannot absorb all of the green and blue colors. Therefore, these colors are reflected back to the human eye, so it appears blue-green to people by daylight. On the other hand, incandescent lights or candlelights have less blue and green light and more red light. Because the chromium ions within the alexandrite don’t absorb much red light, more of that color is reflected so the gem looks purple-red then.
Regarding value, the closer to green by day and red by night an alexandrite gemstone is, the greater its value may be. Similarly, the more distinct the color shifting is from green to red, the higher its value may be. Another factor that can increase alexandrite’s optical properties is a rare phenomenon known as trilling or “cyclic twins”, in which multiple alexandrite crystals grow together in a cyclical or repeated pattern, resembling flower petals or chain links.
Characteristics of alexandrite
Now that you know a little more about alexandrite and the various meanings associated with this semi-precious gem, let’s dive deeper into the specifics:
- Mohs hardness scale: As mentioned earlier, alexandrite is an incredibly durable gemstone, rating 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. Compare this to diamonds (10), sapphires (9), rubies (9), topaz (8), emeralds (7.5-8), quartz (7), peridot (6.5-7), garnet (6.5-7.5) and opal (5.5-6.5). This hardness means that alexandrite may be able to withstand damage better and scratch less than other "softer" gemstones. Furthermore, alexandrite holds up well against other elements such as heat, light and common chemicals, making it an excellent choice for jewelry worn daily or regularly.
- Rarity: While diamonds often get the reputation for being incredibly rare, alexandrite gemstones are much rarer than diamonds. Discoveries of alexandrite throughout the world have made this gemstone more available. However, it is still very rare, often leading to higher price tags than many other gems.
- Origins: After its discovery, alexandrite gemstones have been found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, India, and Burma. In the 1990s, following an increase in discoveries in Brazil, a surge of alexandrite gemstones hit the market, but the supply of alexandrite in the United States slowed, adding to the rarity, allure, and demand for these gems. Since then, increased production from sources like Sri Lanka and Tanzania has again increased supply.
- Cleaning and care tips: Properly cleaning and storing your jewelry may help increase its longevity and help prevent damage. When cleaning alexandrite jewelry, use warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive cloth. Because of its high durability, using specific tools such as ultrasonic and steam cleaners may be safe. Be sure to thoroughly rinse your jewelry to remove any remaining soap and gently pat dry with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth. Consider other factors, such as the metal used with your alexandrite gem, as some metals like tungsten and metal-plated jewelry are more susceptible to damage from ultrasonic cleaners. Also, fragile jewelry, such as antique pieces or those with loose gemstones, should be handled more carefully to avoid damage.
Famous alexandrite gemstones
Most alexandrite gemstones on the market range somewhere between 0.5 and three carats. But some whoppers exist, including the following noteworthy gemstones:
- Sauer Alexandrite: Ready to have your mind blown? The largest rough alexandrite gemstone ever discovered weighed an astounding 122,400 carats. That is about 54 pounds of beautiful, rough alexandrite. Keep in mind that the largest rough diamond ever found, the Cullinan Diamond, was 3,106 carats. Discovered in 1967 in the Jaqueto District of Bahia, Brazil, this giant gem is named after the man who discovered it, Jules Roger Sauer, and remains in his private collection at Amsterdam Sauer in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.
- The Whitney Alexandrite: This stunning alexandrite gemstone presents a gorgeous raspberry color in incandescent light and a teal color in daylight. Weighing a jaw-dropping 17.08 carats, the Whitney Alexandrite currently calls the National Museum of Natural History its home.
- The Smithsonian’s Alexandrite: The Smithsonian Institute is home to the largest-ever faceted alexandrite, tipping the scales at 66 carats. The gemstone, valued at over $4 million, was discovered in Sri Lanka.
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