Why Are Alexandrite Gemstones Considered Unique

What Makes Alexandrite Gemstones So Unique
Similar to other gemstones, Alexandrite gemstones tell an intricate tale. Very few gemstones possess the mystique and infrequent optical phenomena of Alexandrite. Alexandrite gemstones are perhaps likened to the saying, “emerald by day, ruby by night,” due to their color-changing properties and exquisite rarity—an enthralling gemstone to everyone like Nikolai, the renowned jeweler and Czar Alexander’s personal gem maker. However, the uniqueness of Alexandrite gemstones lies amid their origin, science, and symbolism to much more, and it is our job to unravel them all.
1. The Enigmatic Origins of Alexandrite
Often considered international pieces, Alexandrite gems were named after Czar Alexander II and discovered in the 1830s in the Ural Mountains of Russia. These countries were highly popular for their turquoise gemstones, which thể emeralds and captivated jewelers and royalty.
Mistook as emeralds, these stones gained admirable attributes. Modern sources are renowned for their Brazil, East Africa, and Sri Lanka, while Russian Alexandrite still possesses prestige.
2. The Phenomenon of Color Change
What sets Alexandrite gemstones apart is how every light brings a breathtaking new twist to their charm. In daylight or fluorescent light, the gemstone is green to bluish-green. However, it dramatically shifts under incandescent light, changing to reddish purple.
This optical wonder is because of the way Alexandrite absorbs light. The chromium in the structure of Alexandrite’s crystal reacts to the light’s wavelengths differently from the source. Very few gemstones can boast such substantial changes.
Did you know? Gemologists call this phenomenon the “Alexandrite Effect.”
3. Rarity and Value
Alexandrite is considered one of the rarest colored gemstones. Natural stones of high quality, with minimum inclusions and substantial color change, are especially valued. Such rocks can command a greater price per carat than diamonds.