Alexandrite: The Enigmatic Color-Changing Gemstone
Alexandrite is a rare and highly valued variety of chrysoberyl known for its extraordinary color-changing properties. Discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in the 19th century, this gemstone exhibits a remarkable transformation from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. Due to its rarity and captivating optical effects, Alexandrite is one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
Specifications:
- Chemical Formula: BeAl₂O₄ (Beryllium Aluminum Oxide)
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 8.5
- Specific Gravity: 3.73 – 3.75
- Refractive Index: 1.745 – 1.755
- Birefringence: 0.008 – 0.010
- Luster: Vitreous
- Cleavage: Distinct
- Color Change:
- Daylight (Sunlight/Fluorescent Light): Green, bluish-green, or yellowish-green
- Incandescent Light (Candlelight/Bulbs): Red, purplish-red, or brownish-red
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Pleochroism: Strong (showing green, red, and yellow hues depending on the viewing angle)
- Origin: Originally found in Russia (Ural Mountains), now also sourced from Brazil, Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Tanzania
- Market Value: One of the most expensive gemstones, with value based on color change, clarity, and carat weight
- Daylight (Sunlight/Fluorescent Light): Green, bluish-green, or yellowish-green
- Incandescent Light (Candlelight/Bulbs): Red, purplish-red, or brownish-red
Unique Features:
- Color Change Phenomenon: Alexandrite displays a striking color shift due to the way it absorbs light, a rare occurrence known as the "alexandrite effect."
- High Durability: With a Mohs hardness of 8.5, Alexandrite is highly resistant to scratches, making it ideal for fine jewelry.
- Rarity: Natural Alexandrite is extremely rare, and high-quality specimens are considered more valuable than diamonds.
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