Alexandrite is one of the remarkable gemstones. It is one of the finest colour change stones in nature, resembling fine emerald or ruby. However, it obviously depends on the light source. It is so rare, that most people have never seen one. Yet, when the modern list of birthstones was assembled, it was listed as June`s birthstone.
Alexandrite was discovered in 1831 in the Ural Mountains in Russia on the Czar Alexander II birthday. So it was named after him. Alexandrite has a distinguished and glamorous past. The Russian imperial colours were red and green, so it made quite a hit. The original source closed after only a few decades of mining. Today they have been reopened, but only produce a few carats a year.
In 1987, a new find of alexandrite was made in Brazil. Later, alexandrite discoveries were made in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Zimbabwe. However, none of these sites produces as rich and vivid a colour change as the original Russian source.
Availability of Alexandrite
After 1975 Indian alexandrite found in light and since time it is very popular worldwide. These mines are found in South India. There are many small mines of alexandrite some of them producing transparent alexandrite. There are two very famous mines, the Visakhapatnam Mines and the Narsipatnam Mines produces Alexandrite.
Birthstone, Alexandrite
Alexandrite along with pearl and moonstone are birthstones of Gemini. The time ranges from May 21 - June 21Wedding anniversary, Alexandrite: Alexandrite is the anniversary gemstone for the 45th and 55th year of marriage.
Care of Alexandrite
Alexandrite should be protected from scratches, sharp blows, harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
Benefits Of Alexandrite
Alexandrite helps fighting low self-esteem. It also improves central nervous system disorders. Alexandrite relieves spleen and pancreas problems. Alexandrite is a stone of good omen. Alexandrite can assist one in centering the self, reinforcing self-esteem, and increases ones ability to experience joy.
Alexandrite is a beautiful rare stone, which is quite expensive. Nowadays it is very difficult to find natural alexandrite.
