June Birthstone Jewelry – Alexandrite
The alexandrite is one of the rarest of gems on the earth. We have a huge range of June birthstone jewelry using this lovely gemstone as well as pearl jewelry, the alternative June birthstone. Alexandrite is also the gemstone used to celebrate both the 45th and 55th wedding anniversary. It belongs to the chrysoberyl family and consists of a mix of Aluminum, Iron, Titanium, Chromium and chrysoberyl mineral.
This June birthstone is highly revered because of its ability to drastically change colors. Compared to other gems such as sapphires and diamond, the alexandrite is a relatively new gem to the market having only been found 150 years ago. The Alexandrite gem was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830’s and was named after the Emperor of the Russian Empire, Czar Alexander II. This birthstone was dubbed with the name “magic gem” because of its mystical display of colors.
Description of the June Birthstone
The color of this birthstone relies on the lighting wavelength and the chemical bonds that exist in the gem. In natural lighting (sunlight) the alexandrite exhibits a moss like bluish green but when placed under incandescent light from a candle or lamp this color changes to a warm raspberry tone. This transaction is referred to as the alexandrite effect. It is caused by the chemical combination of Chrysoberyl which is a rare oxide mineral and chromium. Chromium is the trace element that gives the alexandrite it’s colors.
Gem Quality
It is important to consider the intensity of the color change when evaluating an alexandrite. The gem is considered rare and more valuable if the color change is more complete and intense. Another factor to consider is the cutting quality and clarity of the gem. Alexandrites that are found in Russia are said to be of better color and quality thus making them more costly. The majority of the alexandrites on the market are less than 1 carat because larger sizes are unaffordable.
Looking after Your Alexandrite Jewelry
It is best to keep alexandrites away from excessive heat exposure since this can affect its color change effect. When cleaning these gems warm, soapy water can be use as well as alcohol or any commercially available products. If steam and ultrasonic cleaning are necessary suitably qualified jewelers should be used.
Sources of Alexandrite
The original birthplace of Alexandrite in the Ural Mountains of Russia has long since elapsed however they are still open and produce a few carats each year. These days there are two major producers of alexandrite stone, Brazil and Sri Lanka (Ceylon). However in the 1990’s Alexandrite stones were also found in countries such as India, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Myanmar (Burma) and Madagascar. Unfortunately, none of these locations has produced as rich and vivid colors as the original gemstones found in Russia. Each stone from these areas has their own characteristics: such as grayish undertones from Ceylon stones and Brazil stones having yellow tones on the green color.
14k Gold Chatham Alexandrite Pendant
List Price: $264.00
14K 8×6mm Oval Chatham-Created Alexandrite Pendant
click here for more details on the 14k Gold Chatham Alexandrite Pendant
Conclusion
Despite the short history this “magic gem” has already been ascribed with a variety of mystical and magical properties. It is rarity and beauty in the truest form and makes a superb June birthstone jewelry gift for a loved one with a June birthday.
Read more from Gold and Silver Birthstone Jewelry
Tagged with: alexandrite birthstone • birthstone jewelry • birthstones • gold birthstone jewelry • june birthstone • june birthstone jewelry
Filed under: birthstone jewelry Information
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