Table of Contents
- 1 How can you tell if an alexandrite stone is real?
- 2 How can you tell the difference between genuine alexandrite and synthetic alexandrite?
- 3 Does created alexandrite change color?
- 4 Does synthetic alexandrite change colors?
- 5 Can alexandrite be worn everyday?
- 6 Is my ring made from real alexandrite?
- 7 What is color-changing alexandrite?
How can you tell if an alexandrite stone is real?
Genuine alexandrites of about one carat are sometimes (rarely) without eye-visible inclusions, so the fact that you can’t see anything in the stone doesn’t mean it’s not genuine. A look under the microscope at 10X or more is recommended. A large, inclusion-free, color-change alexandrite.
What does a fake alexandrite look like?
Many gemstones described as synthetic alexandrite are actually synthetic corundum laced with vanadium to produce the color change. The material shows a characteristic purple-mauve color change which although attractive, does not really look like alexandrite because there is never any green.
How can you tell the difference between genuine alexandrite and synthetic alexandrite?
NATURAL ALEXANDRITE: Natural Alexandrite displays color change that may range from the lightest of light purple to grassy dark green, reddish hues, and deep blues depending on the stone. SYNTHETIC ALEXANDRITE:Synthetic alexandrite features the same color change phenomenon as natural alexandrite.
How much is a real alexandrite worth?
In sizes up to one carat, top-quality natural gems can sell for up to $15,000 per carat. Over one carat, the prices range from $50,000 to $70,000 per carat! For more detailed value information, see our alexandrite buying guide.
Does created alexandrite change color?
Alexandrites are remarkable and rare gemstones. They display an extraordinary colour change according to the ambient lighting, from emerald green in daylight to ruby red in incandescent light from tungsten lamps or candles.
Is synthetic alexandrite worth anything?
Synthetic Alexandrite sells to the trade from one company at $167 per carat, with a retail of $500 per carat.
Does synthetic alexandrite change colors?
Most gemstones described as synthetic alexandrite are actually simulated alexandrite: Synthetic corundum laced with vanadium to produce the color change. The material shows a characteristic purple-mauve color change which, although attractive, differs from alexandrite because there is never any green.
What color stone is alexandrite?
green
Alexandrite, with its chameleon-like qualities, is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Its color can be a lovely green in daylight or fluorescent light, changing to brownish or purplish red in the incandescent light from a lamp or candle flame. This is a result of the complex way the mineral absorbs light.
Can alexandrite be worn everyday?
It has excellent toughness and no cleavage, which is a tendency to break when struck. This makes it a good choice for rings and other mountings subject to daily wear.
How can I tell if a gem is alexandrite?
The only true way to know that a gem is genuine alexandrite is to have the gemstone examined and certified by a laboratory.
Is my ring made from real alexandrite?
However, it occurs very rarely and mostly in newer finds in Africa. Since your ring is over 50 years old, your stone likely didn’t come from these finds. Your color shift more likely indicates a hydrothermally lab-grown alexandrite.
How rare is alexandrite?
Natural alexandrite is very rare. If you’re disappointed, take heart that at least you have a real alexandrite. Some jewelry pieces are sold with gems said to be alexandrites that are actually color change chrysoberyls. (Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl ).
What is color-changing alexandrite?
Color-changing alexandrite is nature’s magic trick. Alexandrite is the color-change variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Alexandrite is bluish green in daylight or fluorescent light. Alexandrite is purplish red in incandescent light or candlelight.