The Fourth of June’s Birthstones - Alexandrite

The fourth of June’s birthstones is the magic stone, Alexandrite. 

The magic of alexandrite lies in its ability to change color and transform from emerald by day and ruby by night. It is light red or purplish red in incandescent artificial light and emerald green or blue-green in daylight or under a fluorescent light. Some varieties of alexandrite are yellowish to pink or orange in daylight and a raspberry red by incandescent light.

As far as gemstones go Alexandrite is a relatively modern gem, first discovered in Russia in 1831 during the reign of Czar Alexander II after whom it was named. This is probably because it is only rarely found in nature.Alexandrite was a treasured gemstone with Russian royalty and aristocrats bringing them good luck and good fortune. Because Imperial Russia’s primary colors were red and green it naturally became the national stone of tsarist Russia.

Alexandrite is an extremely rare variety of chrysoberyl with a complex chemical makeup which is responsible for its color change abilities. Alexandrite can only form when aluminium and beryllium combine with trace elements like iron, titanium and, most importantly, chromium in its crystalline structure and the likelihood of this occurring naturally is fairly doubtful.  Due to its rarity, jewellers tend to use synthetic, man-made versions of this enchanting gemstone.  

 

Other than Alexandrite, there are two other varieties of chrysoberyl are - ordinary chrysoberyl is yellow-to-green; and cat's eye otherwise know as cymophane.

 

Alexandrite helps to balance one’s emotional state, provide confidence, increase self-esteem and bring about change. Alexandrite brings spiritual growth, happiness, success, and intensifies feelings of love and sensuality. It has been used as a stone of manifestation and good fortune, joy, and creativity.  It is used to cure diseases of the central nervous system, spleen and pancreas.

Alexandrite is such a special stone because it bestows both an uplifting and ennobling energy. In its highest aspect, alexandrite one of June’s birthstones, symbolizes freedom, joy, and regeneration. June's birthstone, alexandrite makes the perfect gift.