What are properties of alexandrite?
Alexandrite Properties
| Mineral Class | Chrysoberyl |
|---|---|
| Refractive Index | 1.74 – 1.76 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.70 – 3.78 |
| Transparency | Transparent to opaque |
| Birefringence | 0.007 – 0.011 |
Is alexandrite gemstone a mineral?
Alexandrite is a very rare mineral variety of chrysoberyl (BeAl2O4), which occurs in granitic pegmatites and mica schists. Small scale replacement in chrysoberyl of alumina by chromic oxide results in the formation of the variety alexandrite and is responsible for alexandrite’s characteristic green to red color change.
Who can wear Alexandrite?
Since Alexandrite is considered as the birthstone of the month of June, people born in the month of June are advised to wear this gemstone. In addition to this, people born under the zodiac sign of Cancer can also wear the gemstone to benefit from its mystical properties or just wear it for fashion.
How does alexandrite change color?
The color changing property of Alexandrite is known as ‘Alexandrite effect’, and is a result of chromium traces found in the gemstone. The absorption band 580 nm allows the Alexandrite to change color from red to green when seen under different light.
Do all alexandrite stones change color?
Not all color-change chrysoberyl is alexandrite, despite the assurances of sellers. If any other color-change combinations are observed, the stone should be identified as a color-change chrysoberyl. A classic alexandrite color change: Green in daylight to slightly purple Red in incandescent light.
What color is the best alexandrite?
In fact, the best alexandrites are teal, vanadium green, greenish blue, or blue-green under natural daylight or fluorescent and change to purple-red or red under incandescent light. The more apparent the color change, and the more vivid the colors, the more valuable the gem.
Is alexandrite purple or green?
In natural and fluorescent light, alexandrite can range from green to greenish blue, but under incandescent or candle light, it can appear purple to purplish red.
What color of alexandrite is the most expensive?
red
The yellowish-green color of alexandrite is considered less valuable. The most expensive color in candescent light is red without additional shades.