A Guide to Alexandrite's Meaning, Value, and Color-Change Properties
Alexandrite is a fascinating and unique gemstone that was first discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains in the 19th century. Named after Russian Tsar Alexander II, the magical stone is a rare chrysoberyl mineral known for its remarkable color-changing properties.
Alexandrite is not only an extraordinary gemstone, but it is also the birthstone of June. Those born in June have the honor of calling it their birthstone. This color-changing stone is known to symbolize growth, transformation and change, making it the perfect stone for those born when nature undergoes a major transformation at the start of summer.
Join us to explore the beauty of this wonderful gemstone, its meaning, value as well as fascinating facts.
About Its Meaning and Symbolism
Allexandrite is considered a stone that can bring fortune, prosperity and love. It is believed to enhance intuition, creativity and spiritual growth of the wearer. The stone’s connection to the heart chakra makes people believe that it’s a popular choice for promoting emotional balance and well-being. In addition, it is believed to have a calming effect on the mood, enabling the wearer to reduce stress and promote feelings of peace and tranquility.
Color Changing Properties
Alexandrite is a rare and remarkable gemstone that has a special property of changing colors. This is one of the reasons why it is so highly valued by collectors and gem lovers. The color change is most noticeable when viewed under different lighting conditions. In natural light, it appears blue-green or blue-green, and under incandescent lighting it appears purple-red. The transition from one color to another is very dramatic and is considered one of the most impressive color changes in gemstones.
The stone’s color-changing properties are due to its unique crystal structure, which is a combination of chrysoberyl and other minerals. The presence of trace elements such as chromium, vanadium and iron in the crystal structure is responsible for the color change. These trace elements absorb different wavelengths of light and thus appear different colors depending on the lighting conditions.
Value and Price
Alexandrite is one of the most valuable gemstones in the world, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars per carat to tens of thousands of dollars per carat. Its value depends on several factors, including color, clarity, cut and carat weight. However, the most significant factor is the degree of color change. The more striking the color change, the higher the value of the magical stone.
Due to its rarity, natural alexandrite can be quite expensive, often selling for tens of thousands of dollars per carat. Lab-grown alexandrite, on the other hand, is a much more affordable option, with prices ranging in price from $20 to $200 per carat. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to own beautiful and rare gemstones while saving money. If you're looking for affordable yet exquisite laboratory alexandrite jewelry, check out LUO Jewelry's collection.
Natural Versus Lab-created
Both natural and lab-made forms of alexandrite have their own advantages and disadvantages. They have the same chemical composition, the only difference being how they are made. Both varieties are durable and have high brilliance, making them great choices for jewelry.
Natural alexandrite is extremely rare and expensive, while lab-grown one is more affordable and easier to find. Natural alexandrite also tends to have more subtle color variations, while lab-made stone can produce more intense color variations.
When choosing between natural and lab-made alexandrite, it's important to consider your budget and priorities. If you're looking for an affordable option with bold color variations, the lab-grown stone may be right for you. However, if you are a collector or looking to invest in rare and valuable gemstones, natural alexandrite may be worth the extra money. Whichever you choose, be sure to buy from a reputable dealer to ensure the quality of the stone.
Alexandrite is a truly unique and beautiful gemstone that is definitely worth exploring. With its rare color-changing properties, rich history of meaning and symbolism, and physical and metaphysical properties, alexandrite is a gemstone that has captured the hearts of many. Whether you're looking to buy alexandrite jewelry, or simply admire its beauty, it is a gemstone sure to impress.
