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Alexandrite, which is used in June birthstone jewelry, is one of the uncommonest of gems to surface on the earth. It's known as the June birthstone and is the gem used to commemorate both the 45th and 55th wedding anniversaries. It belongs to the chrysoberyl family and is made from a blend of chromium, aluminium, titanium, iron and chrysoberyl mineral.

Alexandrite's Color Changing Properties

This June birthstone is highly valued because of it's ability to significantly switch colors. In comparison with other gemstone such as diamonds and sapphires, alexandrite is a fairly novel gemstone to the market, having only been  found roughly 150 years ago. The Alexandrite precious stone was first found in the Russian Ural Mountains around 1830 and was named after the Russian Czar, Alexander II. This gem was dubbed with the name “magic gem” because of it's lovely display of colors.

A Description of Alexandrite the June Birthstone

The color of this gem varies with the the wavelength of light and the chemical bonds that exist in the gem. In natural light alexandrite displays a moss like bluish green but when placed under incandescent light from a candle or lamp the color changes to a warm raspberry tone. This transformation is referred to as the alexandrite effect. It is caused by the chemical combination of of chromium with the rare mineral chrysoberyl. Alexandrite gets it's colors from chromium.

Alexandrite Gemstone Quality

It is important to consider the strength of the color change when valuing an alexandrite. The precious stone is considered rare and of higher value if the color change is complete and deep. Another aspect to bear in mind is the cutting quality and clarity of the gem. Alexandrites that are found in Russia are supposed to be of better quality and color, consequently making them more valuable. The majority of the alexandrites on the market are less than 1 carat since larger sizes are unaffordable by nearly everyone.

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Caring for Your Alexandrite Jewels

it's essential to keep alexandrites away from extreme heat exposure since this can have an effect on their color change effect. When cleaning these gems soapy warm water can be used or alcohol or a specially made jewelry cleaning solution. If ultrasonic or steam cleaning are required properly trained jewelers should be used.

Sources of Alexandrite

The original birthplace of alexandrite in the Ural Mountains of Russia has now virtually been mined out, however the mines are still open and produce a few carats every year. These days there are two major sources of alexandrite gems, Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) and Brazil. In the 1990’s Alexandrite gems were also found in countries such as Zimbabwe, India, Burma and Madagascar. Regrettably, none of these locations has managed to produce as intense and vivid colors as the original gemstones produced in Russia. Gemstones from these areas have their own uniqueness: such as the grayish hues of stones from Ceylon and yellow tones in gems from Brazil.

Finally

In spite of the relatively short history of this lovely stone it's already been ascribed with a mixture of magical and mystical properties. It is an uncommon and gorgeous gem and would make a fantastic June birthstone jewelry gift for a cherished one with a June birthday.

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