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Alexandrite Gemstone Information.
Information * Loose Alexandrite * Jewelry links
Alexandrite is the birthstone for the month of June and the gemstone for the 45th and the 55th wedding anniversary. It was discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains in 1830 on the birthday of Czar Alexander II, the day he became of ruling age, hence the stone was named after him-Alexandrite. This gemstone was looked upon as a good omen in Russia since the green and red colors represented Russian Military. Alexandrite is thought to assist one in centering the self, reinforcing self-esteem, and to broaden ones ability to experience joy.
View examples of  cut Alexandrite below.


ENHANCEMENT CODE O
Click to view AGTA code.

PROPERTIES
Refractive Index 1.746-1.755

Hardness = 8.5 (Moh's Scale)

Specific Gravity = 3.73

Species - Chrysoberyl

Optic Character – Double Refraction.

Phenomena - Color change


WARNINGS FOR CARE
Ultrasonic: Usually safe.

Steamer: Usually safe.

Heat: Stable.

Chemicals that harm: None known.
 
Crystal Structure
Alexandrite crsytal image
Crystal system: Hexagonal (trigonal), compact.
MAJOR SOURCES
 Brazil		 Birthstones
 January  Garnet
February Amethyst
March Aquamarine
April Diamond
May Emerald
June Pearl/Alexandrite
July Ruby
August Peridot
September Sapphire
October Opal/Tourmaline
November Topaz or Citrine
December Blue Topaz or Zircon
At this time we are not supporting sales of genuine alexandrite.
 We suggest you visit our Chatham® lab created alexandrite page.
Chatham lab grown gems are far more stable and much less expensive.

Antique cut alexandrite image
Antique cut
 
Emerald cut alexandrite image
Emerald Cut
Oval shape alexandrite image
Oval shape

Alexandrite is a rare color change gem.
When viewed under  incandescent light it looks purplish red.
When viewed in sunlight it looks greenish blue.

For this reason alexandrite adds another dimension to grading.
Along with cut and clarity alexandrite is graded by it's degree or ability to change color.

A very good quality alexandrite may be valued higher than a diamond.
A very good alternative to genuine alexandrite is Chatham Lab grown alexandrite.
 

Round cut alexandrite image
Round cut
 
Pear Shape alexandrite image
Pear Shape
Princess cut alexandrite image
Princess Cut
Step cut not
available.
 

 

  
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Prices in US Dollars subject to change without notice.