A Very Rare Colour Change Variety Of Chrysoberyl
Alexandrite is a chrysoberyl variety and a mineral, highly prized and rare for its ability to change colour. This colour change is caused by chromium ions in the crystal structure which absorb and reflect different wavelengths under different lighting conditions. The real colour of alexandrite will vary depending on its source or origin so in a sense there is no one true alexandrite colour. In daylight or sunlight alexandrite will appear green, blue green or sometimes yellowish green, under incandescent light or at night it can change to purplish red, reddish purple, raspberry red, brownish red, brownish, brown, orange, yellow or violet/red. The spectrum of colours and shades alexandrite can display is vast, with different colours and forms influenced by lighting and how the stone is formed.
The original alexandrite was discovered in the Ural Mountains by a Finnish mineralogist and notable stones also come from Brazil, Tanzania, Africa, Sri Lanka, Madagascar and India. Alexandrite is often found as faceted gems and inclusions or twinned crystals can affect the appearance and value of these stones. Some alexandrite’s and other gems in the chrysoberyl family can also display a cat’s eye effect adding to their uniqueness and appeal.
Alexandrite gemstones and the variety of alexandrite colours are as unique as a fingerprint or personality. This is why you often hear experts talk about the personality of coloured gemstones – in this case the rare and collectable alexandrite’s, stones and gems.
The size or weight of alexandrite gemstones will greatly affect the value of a natural alexandrite stone. The intensity and contrast of the colour from one light source to another is also a very important factor. Due to natural colour-change, alexandrite will vary greatly in intensity and contrast of colour. The colour will change depending on the source of light. The last element of top quality alexandrite is clarity of the crystal or material. Alexandrite under one carat in weight and in good to top quality will be priced between 3k to 18K per carat. Alexandrite over one carat again in good to top quality will command prices of 5K to 30K per carat. Alexandrite is considered one of the most valuable precious gemstones and is highly sought after by collectors for their collection.
As with all natural coloured gemstones, alexandrite price options will vary based on the variation of the three main quality attributes: size, the greater the change in colour and clarity.
All alexandrite gemstones are rare. Size, quality of colour and colour contrast, clarity and carats are the key to answering this question. Carats are the standard unit for measuring gemstone weight and value and larger carats are especially rare and command much higher prices. The price of alexandrite is determined by a combined assessment of colour, clarity and carats. Alexandrite crystals under one carat and poor or average clarity and colour contrast can be good buying and less than diamond prices in this case. Alexandrite stone price at the top end of colour contrast and clarity even under one carat will command prices above diamond prices per carat.
If an alexandrite gemstone for sale is cheap or much cheaper than all other reputable sellers be very wary. Always insist on an alexandrite for sale you are considering being accompanied by a well known and reputable gemstone grading laboratory. This could be a GIA certified natural alexandrite; the GIA is a gemological institute recognized for its expertise in grading, certification and identification. There are quite a few other very reputable gemstone testing laboratories that test alexandrite as well. This will assure you that the alexandrite you are purchasing is natural and the report will give you a very detailed description, colour type and contrast of the alexandrite with photos in the grading certificate.
Alexandrite is a hard and durable gemstone, so anyone can wear alexandrite as a collector or in a piece of jewellery. Alexandrite is often set in rings and earrings, with an alexandrite ring being a prized possession for many collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. Many alexandrite jewellery pieces are crafted by skilled artisans who create unique designs and some stones are hand selected for their exceptional quality. Diamonds are frequently used as accent stones in alexandrite jewellery, enhancing the overall brilliance and value of each piece. Buyers may opt for smaller stones to suit their budget while still enjoying the beauty of this rare gem.
The meaning and passion associated with alexandrite is highly valued as the stone is believed to bring positive energy into your life and connect you to a wider world of experiences. Alexandrite birthstone or June birthstone alexandrite is a very special and rare gift to celebrate your own birthday or the birthday of a loved one. Natural alexandrite is something you won’t see very often or at all in a piece of jewellery. If you see an alexandrite for sale be sure to follow the advice of the previous note as there are many synthetic or man made alexandrite’s set into jewellery and sold as natural.
