Here we continue our look at alexandrite, a precious green gemstone.

Geographical Origin of Alexandrite

The potential to create alexandrite has been around on the earth for millions of years, but as it requires specific geological conditions to form it was not created and discovered until much more recently. The geological scenario required to form the gem has happened rarely in the history the planet, and as a result alexandrite crystals are extremely scarce and found in just a few locations around the globe.

Although Russia has remained the main source of alexandrite, other stocks have been discovered in recent years. After the discovery in Russia, the next finds did not actually occur until 1987, when supplies of the gem were found in Minas Gerais, Brazil. These stones do not have as an intense hue as Russian alexandrite, but the famous color change can still be witnessed in them, and the gems can still command decent prices. The same can be said of sources found in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Zimbabwe and Burma.

Gems of Russian origin are without doubt the most valuable. Though proving the geographical origin of the gem has not always been easy, in recent times improved trade barriers between Russia and the rest of the world has made this task a little less complicated. Larger (above one carat), Russian, high-quality stones are rarer than fine rubies, emeralds or sapphires, and as a result extremely valuable. This makes alexandrite something of a gem for the experts and the real connoisseurs of fine gemstones.

Meanings and Properties

As with the vast majority of gemstones, alexandrite has several supposed benefits and properties. Its rarity and intense green hue gives it something of a mystical presence, and is believed to bring good luck, aid creativity and inspire the imagination. It is believed to align the mental and physical parts of the body, aid internal and external regeneration, and is a designated birthstone for the month of June (and the rarest of all birthstones). It is also the most common choice of stone for couples that make it as far as their 55^th wedding anniversary.

Alexandrite has a hardness rating of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it an easy stone to wear as it will not damage or graze easily.