Gemstone Details
Spinel
Centuries ago, in Sanskrit writings, spinel was called the daughter of ruby, adored, yet somehow different. The Crown Jewels of Great Britain are graced with spinels and have resided in the regalia of kingdoms throughout history.
Found in Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka and East Africa, spinel comes in a variety of colors including oranges, pinks, blues, lavenders, mauves and vivid reds. While common in sizes up to two carats, larger gemstones can also be acquired.
Spinel is thought to protect the owner from harm, to reconcile differences, and to soothe away sadness. However, the strongest reasons for buying a spinel are its rich, brilliant array of colors and its surprising affordability.
One of the most under-appreciated gemstones, spinel is coveted by collectors and gemologists for its range of hues and spectacular optical properties. Spinel was recently added as an official birthstone for August, raising its exposure to new heights. Recognized and prized for its hardness, brilliance, and unlike many other gem types, spinel is rarely treated or enhanced in any way. Many believe the name spinel comes from the Greek word for ’spark’. This name suits spinel well since it is a singularly refractive stone and is formed with cubic crystals similar to diamond, which gives this gemstone remarkable brilliance and fire.
Spinel is the birthstone for August and gift for the 22nd wedding anniversary.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is one of the most unique and rare gemstones ever discovered. It is a phenomenal variety of the mineral chrysoberyl that naturally color changes from bluish green in daylight to purplish red in incandescent light. First discovered in 1830 in Czarist Russia in the Ural Mountains. Since the imperial colors of Russia were red and green, the newly discovered stone was named after Czar Alexander II, then heir to the throne. Quickly it became the national stone of Russia, worn by royalty and the nobility. Today, fine alexandrites, particularly those of Russian origin, are most often found in period jewelry since newly mined gems are extremely rare.
The original source in Russia’s Ural Mountains has long since closed after producing for only a few decades. In 1987 a new deposit of Alexandrite was found in Hematita, Brazil. Although there are other areas where Alexandrite has been discovered, Brazil is considered the finest source for Alexandrite since the 19th century. The most important quality factor when determining the value of an Alexandrite is its color change, caused by the complex way this mineral absorbs light. All other things being equal; the more dramatic the color change, the higher the value. Fine quality stones over one carat are exceptionally rare.
Alexandrite is the birthstone for June and the gem for the 55th wedding anniversary.
