Alexandrite stone: what it looks like and who it suits according to their zodiac sign

Since past years, various amulets and amulets have been made from any precious or semi-precious stones. There is only one reason for this - gems are able to record and store information. Over time, people began to notice that the presence of any crystal began to change the life of its owner. In this case, changes can be both positive and extremely negative. Unfortunately, alexandrite did not escape the fate of bad fame. Why was such a beautiful mineral given the name “widow’s stone” and is it worth believing superstitions?

The history of the appearance of the alexandrite stone

This royal mineral was named in honor of Emperor Alexander II. Alexandrite was given to the future king for 16 years. The emperor subsequently used it as his own amulet.

Only rich Russian nobles could wear jewelry with the mineral, since it was considered very rare and had a high cost.

It is worth noting that the gem was found on the banks of the Tokova River, which was located near Yekaterinburg.

At first, the mineral was mistaken for an emerald. This was due to the place of extraction and the color of the gem. At the same time, the hardness of alexandrite was higher, and under artificial light it became ruby.

According to scientific theories, information about a unique gem is present in ancient chronicles and treatises that were found in Sri Lanka and India. Similar small crystals were used as decorations in England. This took place during the Victorian era.

What is alexandrite? According to the description, this mineral has the following properties:

It is one of the types of chrysoberyls. In addition, it belongs to the category of the youngest jewelry.
The hardness according to the Mohs scale is 8.5.
The mineral is characterized by a glassy luster.
The gem has a transparent or translucent structure.

The stone changes shade depending on the lighting. This feature of the gem is called the Alexander effect. When exposed to sunlight, the stone has green and blue hues, and when exposed to artificial light, the color of alexandrite becomes crimson, red or purple.

The stone can change shade depending on the lighting.

Scientists note that the gem is considered a natural variety of chrysoberyl. It contains an admixture of chromium. The presence of this substance allows the gem to change its shade. Gemologists call this characteristic color reversal. The mineral also includes titanium, vanadium and iron.

Most often, natural alexandrite stone is transparent. However, sometimes colorless stones are also found.

The color scheme of the gem is determined by its origin:

The highest quality alexandrites are mined in the Urals. Their color reverse is considered the deepest. In artificial light, the stone appears crimson or purple-red. In daylight, the gem appears green and blue.
The stones, which were found in Africa and Brazil, are green-brown in color during the day. Under artificial lighting, they appear a little richer than red Ural gems.
Crystals mined in Sri Lanka appear blue-green when exposed to the sun. Under artificial light they have a purple color.

In terms of cost, alexandrite is almost comparable to diamonds, emeralds and rubies.

Since the reserves of deposits of natural stones are almost empty, and the demand for them remains high, jewelers have come up with artificial alexandrite. This growing method was developed by Polish chemist Jan Czochralski. The crystals were grown at high temperatures—approximately 2500 Kelvin. As a result, we managed to obtain long and beautiful crystals.

Varieties of mineral

Indicating the types of mineral, experts tie them to the places of extraction:

Ural, or alexandrite of the Urals , is the standard of beauty and quality. The gem has a pronounced depth of color: during the day it is a joyful emerald green, in the evening it is an alarming violet-red.
Brazilian. In South American minerals, the color contrast is less pronounced than in their Ural counterparts. During the day they are painted in a calm olive-green shade, in the evening the color changes to red-brown. Olive greens, slightly colored with purple tones, are preserved under artificial lighting.
Indian. During the daytime, the stone shines with bluish-green colors, and in the evening light it takes on a purple hue.
Alexandrite of Sri Lanka. During the day it is a delicate blue-green or olive-blue mineral; in the evening it turns brown with a purple tint. Looks faded under artificial light.
The African gem is poor in contrast, often almost colorless.

Why is it called widow's stone?

Many people are interested in why alexandrite is called the widow's stone. This concept is used exclusively in the post-Soviet space. In the twenties, a synthetic variety of the gem began to be produced here. As a result, the stone has become very popular among women.

After the end of the Great Patriotic War, many women lost their husbands and became widows. As a result, prejudices have linked alexandrite and widowhood. Moreover, in those days, most people did not understand where the stone was natural and where it was artificial. Nevertheless, prejudice is firmly ingrained in our heads. So it came to be that alexandrite is a widow’s stone.

An abundance of artificial jewelry

The industrial production of synthetic minerals, which is carried out in the USA, Japan and Russia, makes it possible to satisfy the demand for this gem and jewelry made from it. Affordable price and absolute external similarity with natural stone keep the popularity of alexandrite at a high level.

Jewelry stores sell earrings, rings, pendants and other items made only from the synthetic version of the stone.

Meaning of the stone

In other countries, it is believed that the Alexandria stone helps to cope with difficulties and achieve success in business. The gem also allows you to maintain love relationships. It is recommended to be worn by people who often experience mood swings.

Natural Alexandrite helps to calm down, activates brain functions and the circulatory system. According to lithotherapists, the gem reacts very sensitively to changes in the mood of its owner.

The stone allows you to notify its owner about an upcoming illness. It will change shade, becoming dark red.

Alexandrite can be taken as a gift. The natural mineral has positive energy. It can be combined with other gems or worn as part of a set.

Jewelry with alexandrite has magical properties.

What affects the cost of a crystal?

The best natural specimens of the gem sell for 6–20 thousand per carat. It all depends on transparency and color saturation. Minerals with the “cat’s eye” effect (cymophanes) are cheaper, but they sometimes cost several thousand per carat. Synthetic analogs go for $500 per carat.

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The influence of the degree of pleochroism on the price

Experts have different approaches to the influence of the severity of pleochroism on the cost of alexandrite. Some evaluate it by the saturation of the red, evening spectrum of the mineral. For others, its depth and transparency in a green, daytime version are more important.

Interesting! Stones that retain the depth and brightness of color only at one time of day are very inexpensive.

Prices on the Russian market

In Russia, prices for Ural alexandrite vary from 5 to 37 thousand rubles. So, in 2014, a 21.41-carat mineral put up at Christie’s was purchased for $70,000. Please note that we are not talking about jewelry, but about a separate crystal.

Magical properties of the stone

Alexandrite is characterized by pronounced magical properties. The gem has a changeable color and is considered a symbol of romance, jealousy and love. Hindus believed that it symbolizes luck, abundance, and longevity. The gem is also considered a symbol of prosperity.

Some astrologers are confident that the gem is able to predict the future, informing its owner about important changes in life. That is why the talisman is often called the prophet stone. At the same time, it warns of problems with golden, brown or yellow hues. If a pleasant surprise is coming, the stone turns emerald.

Jewelry with alexandrite is a great opportunity to replenish vital energy, improve your mood and create a positive attitude.

Thanks to the magical properties of this stone, it helps to achieve the following results:

cope with increased fatigue and depression;
become more cheerful and efficient;
strengthen self-confidence and achieve inner harmony;
become calmer and more peaceful;
cope with life's difficulties;
develop intuition;
achieve success in gambling and financial matters;
develop creative abilities.

The stone can only be worn by strong personalities.
Such unique properties are characteristic of rare gems. However, alexandrite is not suitable for every person. This mineral should be worn by strong and strong-willed people who are able to withstand any difficulties. The stone attracts success and respect to such people.

For those with a soft character, a chameleon stone is not suitable. The gem can attract problems into their life.

Amulets with crystals help every person become more sociable and find new connections. To enhance the energy of a gem, it is important to choose jewelry made from precious metals.

Characteristics of the gem

What does alexandrite look like? The gem is classified as a precious type of chrysoberyl. The transparent mineral is valued for its ability to change color with the slightest change in lighting parameters. The resulting kaleidoscope of shades varies from delicate green to deep purple.

Physical properties

According to its physical parameters, the stone is hard and dense. General properties look like this:

hardness – 8.5 on the Mohs scale;
density 3.5–3.84 g/cm3;
rhombic system;
light refraction – 1.74–1.76;
conchoidal at the fracture;
transparent, with a glassy sheen.

Chemical properties

The chemical formula of the gem is BeAl2O4 with the inclusion of chromium (Cr) ions. It is chromium ions that allow alexandrite to change color when lighting changes from daytime to evening. In addition, one of the varieties of stone, cymophane, gives the effect of a “cat’s eye”.

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Medicinal properties

Alexandrite is a gemstone that has pronounced healing properties. Lithotherapists note the powerful effect of natural gems on the human body. Therefore, experts advise using the gem only during the day. It is better to remove jewelry with alexandrite at night.

The use of a gem has many positive properties. With its help it is possible to achieve the following effects:

Restore the functioning of the circulatory system. The crystal quickly cleanses and restores blood vessels. With the help of the gem it is possible to prevent varicose veins.
Protect yourself from contagious infections.
Eliminate invasion of parasites, including scabies.
Improve the functioning of the digestive system.
Cope with the effects of stress and sleep disorders. It helps improve a person's overall mental state and become more balanced.
Cure alcoholism. To do this, add water to the container with alexandrite and infuse it. After which the finished composition should be given to a person who suffers from constant binges.

Jewelry with alexandrite promotes concentration. They help improve intellectual function and balance emotions.

Jewelry with gemstones have healing properties.

Amethyst

Some women don’t know which widow’s stone is alexandrite or amethyst? In fact, there are several such stones, and amethyst is also included in the list of unlucky crystals. But not everywhere this beautiful gem is considered unlucky.

In India, it is highly valued by yogis, as the pebble helps achieve concentration in meditative techniques. In ancient Greece, amethyst was used as a talisman against intoxication: the stone protected against excessive consumption of strong drinks.

Why did amethyst become a symbol of widowhood? Because this stone, set in silver, was worn by women who had lost their husbands. This stone was a symbol of eternal love, devotion and fidelity.

If the widow wanted to remarry, she had to take off her amethyst necklace or ring. Can married women wear amethyst? This stone is a talisman of family relationships and does not bring misfortune, so anyone who wants to preserve love can safely wear jewelry with amethyst.

Who does the stone suit according to their zodiac sign?

Many people are interested in who is suitable for alexandrite. It is best to wear the gem for Gemini, Aries and Scorpio horoscopes. Representatives of these constellations have a strong character and are able to tame a gem. At the same time, it is better for Cancers, Virgos and Taurus not to use this stone. They are distinguished by a calm and reasonable character, but at the same time they are very vulnerable.

Representatives of other zodiac signs can safely wear jewelry with alexandrite if it is convenient for them. At the same time, the gem has the following effect on people:

For Scorpios, the crystal gives strength to overcome difficult life challenges. The stone helps representatives of this sign become more courageous and purposeful.
Sagittarius will be able to become more confident in themselves and achieve their goals.
For Aquarius, the crystal will help enhance creativity, develop intuition and strengthen the spirit.
Alexandrite will help Capricorns in matters of finance. However, this is only true if the person himself does not remain inactive.
Gemini will be able to find balance with the help of the stone. At the same time, he will not suppress their interests.
Alexandrite will bring good luck to Aries in various endeavors. In addition, it reliably protects representatives of this sign from negative influences.
The stone will help Leos gain power. In addition, the gem promotes career advancement.
Alexandrite brings good luck to Pisces. In addition, it helps you find your life purpose.
For Libra, the crystal will help develop creative abilities. With the help of alexandrite, representatives of this sign can find themselves and their favorite pastime.

Jewelry suits almost all zodiac signs, but there are some exceptions.

Care and wearing rules

There is a belief that the “widow’s stone” is a purely male gem, and it will only bring misfortune to women. However, a representative of the fair sex can prevent the bad influence of the stone by purchasing it in pairs (earrings, ring + pendant set, etc.) or with a diamond as a neighbor.

The stone is durable enough to be worn all day, but it should not be exposed to chemicals when, for example, doing household chores. It should also be stored in a separate suede or flannel bag, and not placed with other jewelry, since alexandrite, having accumulated negative energy during the day, can “share” it with other gems.

Alexandrite should be washed with warm water and soap, dirt and dust should be removed with a soft brush, and wiped with a soft cloth after washing.

How to wear?

Alexandrite was not called the imperial stone for nothing, because wearing it means exposing your destiny to changes and numerous tests. Not every person is capable of this, but only those who have the strength of will and spirit. If you become the happy owner of this unique stone, it may happen that alexandrite will be energetically difficult for you, and the trials of fate will be beyond your strength. According to long-term observations, it has been revealed that in order to neutralize the influence of powerful alexandrite, it must be worn next to other precious stones with softer energy. In the old days, it often happened that a person simply refused to use jewelry with this difficult stone, concluding that alexandrite was not suitable for him.

Jewelers advise wearing alexandrites in sets, and there are two reasons for this: in a set, jewelry always looks more dignified and attractive, and in addition, it is believed that only in this way can one ward off loneliness and widowhood. It is difficult to judge how fair this opinion is, and if you want to make sure of this, you can try to experience the effects of alexandrite on yourself.

Alexandrites are appropriate to wear at any time of the day - it all depends on the style of decoration and proximity to other stones.

So, for example, alexandrites in combination with diamonds are considered evening jewelry, and if you wear the royal stone in the form of a single talisman or ring, then if desired, such jewelry can be left on around the clock.

There is an opinion that chrysotile beryl looks especially beautiful if its owner has brown, black or green eyes. Experienced people said that alexandrite is more suitable for a man than for a woman. By purchasing this precious gem, a woman can doom herself to loneliness, while a man gains strength and self-confidence with this stone. As a talisman, alexandrite manifests its properties most of all in men, since male energy is more consonant with this stone than female energy.

How to care?

Knowledgeable jewelers know that extreme care is required when processing natural alexandrites - one wrong or excessive pressure, and a beautiful stone can become covered with a network of cracks. Synthetic analogues of this gem are much stronger - they are resistant to processing and heat.

In addition, natural chrysotile beryl is unstable when exposed to alkaline solutions - they increase its fragility and reduce its natural brightness.

Considering these features, products with alexandrite should be protected from impacts and, of course, they should not be exposed to chemical components.

To prevent a unique gem from losing its shine, it is unacceptable to engage in work on jewelry that could lead to deformation or contamination of the jewelry. Cleaning jewelry with a precious imperial stone is allowed only with a warm soapy solution of low concentration, to which you can add a few drops of ammonia. This composition not only helps clean the stone, but also restores the shine to its setting. After treatment, the jewelry is rinsed with clean water and carefully wiped with a soft, lint-free cloth. The imperial stone requires respectful treatment - such jewelry should be stored in a special jewelry box with soft walls, and it is best if this box is placed in a dark and cool place.

If a product with real alexandrite requires repair, try to contact a competent and trusted jeweler. Often, during the process of setting a stone in a setting or with the incorrect use of acids and high temperatures, a natural mineral can lose its vibrant shine or become covered with a network of cracks, which will be very problematic, and sometimes simply impossible, to eliminate. Sometimes, to treat a network of small cracks, the method of impregnating the gem with natural oils is used, for example, using high-density cedar oil.

However, this is only a temporary way to eliminate a defect in natural stone, since over time the oil tends to dry out and evaporate, which means that the problem will again require a solution.

Alexandrite Meaning

In the USA, alexandrite is valued not only for its beauty. Women are confident that crystal can bring harmony to family relationships. That's why they don't consider it a sign of widows.

There is an opinion among businessmen that the mineral brings good luck in negotiations. Players are sure that the gem attracts luck and financial success.

Alexandrite is considered a very beautiful mineral that has pronounced magical and healing properties. The gem helps you achieve success in business and improve your personal life.

Place of Birth

For a long time, Russia was the largest miner of alexandrite. The mineral was supplied from the Ural Mountains near the village of Malysheva. At the end of the last century, the deposit was depleted.

Small deposits of the gem were discovered in Brazil (80s of the 20th century), however, they were completely depleted in 3 months.

Today there are no large deposits of this unique mineral. The bulk of gems are mined in Africa, India, Tasmania and the USA. They are found there in the form of placers.

Pomegranate

The idea that garnet is a widow's stone is controversial. The red mineral is considered a symbol of love and passion, capable of reviving faded feelings. However, some cultures give the pomegranate a different meaning.

Pomegranate as a fruit is a symbol of the kingdom of the dead. The deep red crystals resemble drops of blood, which is again associated with death. The powerful energy of the pomegranate can only be curbed by self-confident and strong-willed women, who often dominate their men.

Dark colored garnets are considered a symbol of mourning. Jewelry with these gems is usually worn on days of mourning for the deceased.

Despite all opinions and prejudices, pomegranate has many beneficial properties. You can turn to its power, only not constantly, but periodically.

Topaz

Topaz is rightly called the stone of loneliness. The blue gem deprives you of feelings and feelings of happiness, instills a feeling of detachment. Constant contact with him can turn a person into a hermit who enjoys solitude.

In ancient times, black magicians used blue topaz to attract people who had lost their desire for life due to the loss of a loved one. They completely deprived their victims of any desires and faith in the future in order to subjugate their will to themselves.

Blue topaz, like garnet, is usually worn during mourning.