| Alexandrite, which alternates with pearl as the birthstone for June is particularly interesting because of its color change (green, blue, and violet). The more poetic writers have referred to it as “an emerald by day and a ruby by night”. Alexandrie received its name because it was supposedly discovered on the birthday of Alexander II Czar of Russia in 1830. Because of its rarity, the value of this gemstone is incredibly high. Most of the larger gems are held in safekeeping in the Smithsonian Institute. The rarity and costliness of alexandrite have led to the production of lab created alexandrite which posses virtually the same physical and optical properties as its natural counterpart, including a hardness of 8.5 on the Moh’s scale, making it an extremely durable stone. The lab created alexandrite should be cleaned professionally by a jeweler. If home cleaning is necessary, use jewelry cleaner or lukewarm water with a mild soapy solution. To maintain you gem’s brilliance, clean with a small soft bristled brush, especially on the back where dirt collects. Stimulates happiness and pleasant surprises, good fortune and success in speculative matters. It is good for emotional balance. Growth Investment Nerves Balance Sociability Glands, Eyes |