Individuals born on June 18th are associated with a gemstone of extraordinary rarity and captivating beauty: Alexandrite. While the month of June is traditionally linked to the organic luster of Pearl and the mystical sheen of Moonstone, Alexandrite stands apart for its unique and dramatic color-changing properties. This gemstone, a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, is renowned for its ability to shift from a vivid green in daylight to a regal red under incandescent light. Its discovery in 19th-century Russia imbued it with a sense of imperial prestige, and it has since become a symbol of duality, transformation, and resilience. This article explores the rich history, geological origins, distinctive gemological properties, and cultural significance of Alexandrite, the June 18th birthstone.
The Historical Discovery of Alexandrite
The history of Alexandrite is deeply rooted in the cultural and political landscape of the Russian Empire. The gemstone was discovered in the Ural Mountains in 1830, a date corroborated by multiple sources. The discovery occurred on the future Tsar Alexander II's coming-of-age day, and the stone was named in his honor. Its initial deposit was found near the Emerald mines of the Tokovaya River, a region known for its production of high-quality gemstones.
The serendipitous timing of its discovery, coinciding with the ascension of Tsar Alexander II to the throne, imbued the stone with a sense of destiny and imperial favor. In the Russian court, Alexandrite became a symbol of good fortune and national pride. Its unique color change, shifting from the green of the Russian military uniforms to the red of the nation's hematite, was seen as a potent emblem of the empire. This historical narrative has cemented Alexandrite's reputation as a gemstone of prestige and royal heritage.
Geological Formation and Mining Locations
Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl, a beryllium aluminium oxide (BeAl₂O₄). Its formation requires a unique geological environment where the elements beryllium and aluminium are present, along with trace amounts of chromium, which is responsible for the stone's color. The chromium substitutes for aluminium in the crystal lattice, a process that typically occurs under specific pressure and temperature conditions.
The primary and most historically significant source of Alexandrite is the Ural Mountains in Russia. These deposits, particularly those near the Emerald mines of the Tokovaya River, produced the finest quality material known as "Uralian" or "Siberian" Alexandrite. However, these mines are now largely depleted, making high-quality Russian Alexandrite exceptionally rare and valuable.
Modern sources of Alexandrite have been identified in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa, particularly Tanzania and Madagascar. While these locations produce Alexandrite, the stones often differ in color characteristics from the classic Russian material. Brazilian Alexandrite, for example, is known for its large crystal sizes but may exhibit a less dramatic color change or different base colors compared to its Russian counterparts. Sri Lankan Alexandrite is also noted in the trade, though often with a less pronounced color shift. The rarity of natural Alexandrite, regardless of origin, is compounded by the fact that the color change is a natural phenomenon, making it a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts.
Gemological Properties of Alexandrite
Alexandrite is celebrated for its remarkable physical and optical characteristics. Its most defining feature is its pleochroism, specifically its color-changing ability, which is a result of strong light absorption bands in the yellow part of the spectrum. This phenomenon causes the gem to appear green in daylight or fluorescent light and red to purplish-red in incandescent light. This dramatic shift has earned it the poetic moniker "emerald by day, ruby by night."
Beyond its color change, Alexandrite possesses a suite of gemological properties that contribute to its durability and beauty. It has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a highly durable gemstone suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets that are subject to daily wear. Its refractive index ranges from 1.746 to 1.755, and it is doubly refractive, which contributes to its brilliance when properly cut. Alexandrite typically has a specific gravity between 3.71 and 3.75.
Clarity is an important factor in evaluating Alexandrite. Natural stones often contain inclusions, and some of these can be used to distinguish them from synthetic or treated materials. The presence of "silk," or fine needle-like inclusions, is common and can sometimes soften the color or affect the clarity. The value of an Alexandrite is significantly influenced by the intensity of its color change, with stones exhibiting a strong, distinct shift from green to red being the most prized.
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Chrysoberyl |
| Chemical Formula | BeAl₂O₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 8.5 |
| Refractive Index | 1.746 - 1.755 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.71 - 3.75 |
| Color Change | Green in daylight, Red in incandescent light |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Alexandrite's symbolism is intrinsically linked to its unique color-changing ability. It is widely regarded as a stone of duality, representing the balance between the physical and spiritual worlds, the conscious and the subconscious. This duality has led to its association with transformation, renewal, and adaptability. It is believed to encourage individuals to embrace change and find new paths forward, embodying the cyclical nature of life's journey.
In metaphysical traditions, Alexandrite is known as a "stone of good omens," bringing luck, prosperity, and intellect to its wearer. Its connection to the Russian imperial court has also imbued it with connotations of royalty and prestige. Some sources suggest that Alexandrite is associated with the spleen, liver, and pancreas, and is thought to have a purifying effect on the body. It is also linked to the crown chakra, enhancing intuition and spiritual awareness.
The gemstone's ability to change color is seen as a metaphor for the need to see the world from different perspectives. It is a stone for those who are navigating significant life transitions, offering support and encouraging a positive outlook. Its association with the month of June, a time of growth and flourishing, further enhances its symbolism of renewal and vitality.
Care and Cleaning of Alexandrite
Given its excellent hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, Alexandrite is a very durable gemstone that is resistant to scratching and abrasion. This makes it an ideal choice for jewelry that is worn frequently, such as engagement rings or daily-wear pendants. However, despite its hardness, it is important to handle all gemstones with care.
To clean Alexandrite, warm water, a mild soap, and a soft brush are recommended. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for Alexandrite, but it is always wise to ensure that the stone is not set in a delicate mounting or accompanied by other gems that might be sensitive to vibrations. Steam cleaning is also typically safe, but caution should be exercised if the stone has significant inclusions or fractures.
It is advisable to remove Alexandrite jewelry before engaging in activities that could expose the stone to harsh chemicals, such as household cleaning agents, or physical impacts, such as heavy manual labor. Storing Alexandrite separately from other jewelry will prevent it from being scratched by harder materials like diamonds or sapphires. Regular cleaning and proper storage will ensure that the gemstone's captivating color change and brilliance are preserved for generations.
Conclusion
Alexandrite is a gemstone of profound significance and unparalleled beauty. Its discovery in the Russian Empire, its unique color-changing properties, and its exceptional durability make it a standout choice for those born in June, particularly on the 18th. More than just a birthstone, Alexandrite is a symbol of transformation, duality, and resilience, reflecting the cyclical nature of life. Its rich history, from imperial courts to modern jewelry collections, speaks to its enduring appeal. Whether valued for its rarity, its scientific intrigue, or its metaphysical symbolism, Alexandrite remains one of the most enchanting and celebrated gemstones in the world.