Properties
Mineral group: Chrysoberyl
Chemistry: BeAL2O4
Color: Golden-yellow, green-yellow, green, brown, red
Crystal system: Ortorombic
Mohs Scale hardness: 8,5
Refractive index: 1.746-1,763
Birefringence: 0.007 - .011
Specific gravity: 3,70-3,78
Information
Can be confused with
Synthetic sapphire, synthetic spinel, andalusite and garnet pyrop. There is also synthetic alexandrite although color change sapphire is more commonly used as it is cheaper.
Treatments
Normally alexandrite is un untreated. Even though attempts have been made it doesn't appear possible to enhance the color change effect with heat treatment.
Oil is sometimes used to hide fractures.
Instruments for identification
Microscope/Loupe can reveal the possible inclusions.
Chealsea filter can be used as the alexandrite color shows up as red due to its chrome content.
The color change effect is the main effect to ascertain. No color change - no alexandrite. The color change can be observed from daylight to build light (not LED).
Known deposits
Found for the first time in the Urals and named after Tsar Alexander II. The Russian deposits are er however exhausted and presently the largest deposits are found in Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and Brasil. Burma, Madagascar and Tanzania also have deposits of significance.
Miscellaneous
By far the largest alexandriet has been found in Sri Lanka in 1876. The largest cut stone weighed 66 carat and can be seen at the Smithonian Institute.
Read/learn more about Alexandrite
Alexandrite in healing (Source: ChatGPT)
Alexandrite is an unusual and fascinating crystal known for its color-changing property, which is said to reflect its unique healing properties. In crystal healing, alexandrite is associated with transformation, balance and inner strength. Here are some of the most common properties attributed to alexandrite:
1. Transformation and Adaptability
- Alexandrite is strongly associated with transformation, largely due to its ability to change color in different light. It symbolizes change and is said to encourage the wearer to adapt to new situations and to accept the cycles of life.
- It is often used by those who are going through major changes, such as career changes, life changes or personal development.
2. Inner Strength and Self-Esteem
- Alexandrite is said to strengthen self-esteem and self-confidence, which can help the wearer stand firm in their decisions and overcome insecurities.
- It is believed to remind us of our own power and strength, making it an excellent crystal for personal development and finding the courage to follow one's heart.
3. Emotional Balance and Heart Chakra
- In healing, alexandrite is associated with balancing the heart chakra, helping to create emotional stability and deeper self-acceptance. It is said to support healing from emotional trauma and release blockages in the heart.
- Alexandrite is often used to process emotions in a healthy way and to release old pain and sorrows, while helping to open up to new relationships and positive feelings.
4. Increased Creativity and Joy
- The crystal is believed to inspire creativity and promote a positive attitude. The color changing property is seen as a symbol of looking at the world from different perspectives and finding joy and beauty in different aspects of life.
- It is often used by people who want to increase their inspiration and find joy in small, everyday moments or in creative projects.
5. Spiritual Clarity and Intuition
- Alexandrite is also linked to strengthening intuition and insight. It is sometimes used to facilitate spiritual growth and can help the wearer open up to their inner wisdom and self-understanding.
- It is also believed to help see beyond illusions and find truth, making it useful in meditation and reflection.
How alexandrite is used:
Alexandrite can be worn as jewelry to keep its energy close to the body, especially during transitions or changes in life. It is sometimes placed at the heart chakra for emotional healing or held close during meditation to promote spiritual clarity. The crystal can also be used in creative spaces to inspire new perspectives and joy.
As with all crystals, the healing properties of Alexandrite are based on spiritual and symbolic belief rather than scientific fact. However, many experience positive effects through its use in intentional and holistic practices.
