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The birthstone for those born in June and one of the
popular choices for a fifty-fifth wedding anniversary,
Alexandrite is the color change variety of the mineral
species chrysoberyl. When this gem is illuminated by sunlight and many types of
fluorescent light, which contain a large number of green and blue rays, its
color is green. Under candlelight and incandescent light, which contain more red
rays, the stone appears red. Fine alexandrite is a rich purple-red in
incandescent lighting and a rich bluish green with daylight.
Alexandrite is a fairly modern gem, unknown before 1830
when it was discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains. Discovered on Czar
Alexander II's birthday, the day he became of ruling age, the stone was named
after him. Also notable is that the gem's green and red colors were those
of the Russian military. Alexandrite is still looked upon as a stone of good
omen in that country.
Until recently, the most important sources of alexandrite
were Russia and Sri Lanka. Mining of this gem in Russia probably peaked late in
the 19th century. In recent times a number of sources of good quality
alexandrite were discovered in Brazil and Tanzania. The Hematita mine in Brazil
has been touted as producing the finest known alexandrite. Some collectors,
however, will always argue that the Russian material is the finest. Alexandrite
as found in gem form can vary in weight from country to country but rarely
weighs over from one to three carats.
The rarest of all birthstones, alexandrite finds
acceptance in clarity grades that would not be acceptable in other gems. It is
considered one of the world's most valuable gemstones. Even more rare and
valuable is the Cat's Eye alexandrite, the variety of chatoyancy and color
change phenomena.
We want you to own Alexandrite and that is why we offer
this phenomenal gemstone in several shapes and qualities. However, due to its
rarity, quantities are limited. Genuine alexandrite is available through us in
four qualities. Each step up in quality will include stones of better clarity
and greater intensity of color and color-change than the quality below.
Just call our friendly sales associates to choose your
alexandrite gemstone today!
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