Diamonds may be eternal, but few gemstones are as mysteriously captivating as alexandrite, making it the ideal choice for a one-of-a-kind engagement ring. The stone’s ever-changing hue and scarcity make it extremely unique and more than just a passing fad. In short, an alexandrite engagement ring is ideal for anyone looking for something truly unique.
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The Benefits and Drawbacks of Alexandrite Engagement Rings
One of the most appealing aspects of an alexandrite engagement ring is its uniqueness. For those looking for something eye-catching and one-of-a-kind, alexandrite may be a better choice than diamond because it feels more exclusive. “Alexandrite is a great choice if you are an out-of-the-box thinker”. “Alexandrite is an extremely valuable, rare, unusual, and costly stone.”
While diamonds are by far the most durable gemstones, alexandrite isn’t a bad choice for strength. “Alexandrite is an excellent choice for an engagement ring because of its 8.5 Mohs hardness”. If you work with your hands and require a stone that can withstand a lot of wear and tear, an alexandrite engagement ring could be a fantastic choice.
Although alexandrite has many advantages, it does have one disadvantage. As jewelry designer and Mocuin founder Caitlin Mocuin points out, comparing alexandrite and diamonds can be difficult. “Alexandrite is a very different looking gemstone [than diamond],” she says. “I’d say it’s desirable for someone looking for a more distinctive and unusual engagement ring.”
What Should You Look for in an Alexandrite Ring?
Because alexandrite has a unique color-changing property, you should consider the metals and other stones you’re using to ensure they complement all of the varying shades. Here are a few more questions to consider before buying an alexandrite ring.
- What metals go well with alexandrite?It looks great in yellow gold because it highlights the red/purple warm tones while also contrasting the green/teal cool tones. “A white metal will function in reverse. It depends on whether you prefer warmer or cooler tones and which you prefer to complement.”
- What is the price of alexandrite rings?The finest alexandrite color is green to blue-green in daylight and red to purple-red in incandescent light, with a medium to medium-dark tone and moderately strong saturation. Stones that are too dark or too light, with low saturation, are more common and thus less expensive. Those that change to red are more valuable than those that change to purple or brownish tones. “You should only pay a high price for one that shows both warm and cool colors, as well as reds.”
- How do I know if the ring is of high quality?Buy a certified stone from a reputable laboratory that grades gemstones to ensure you’re getting the best stone. Their report will reveal objective information about the gemstone you are purchasing.
- What settings complement alexandrite the best?Because alexandrite is softer than a traditional diamond, we recommend setting it in a hard precious metal.Avoid treated gemstones because they have been altered at some point to change color, clarity, or durability. Synthetic stones are chemically identical to natural stones, with the exception that synthetic stones were grown in a laboratory by a man. Natural stones are far more valuable than synthetic stones. If at all possible and within your budget, we recommend only using natural gemstones.
How to Take Care of an Alexandrite Ring
Because alexandrite is a hard stone, it requires little maintenance. We recommend cleaning with a soft brush, such as an old toothbrush, mild soap, and room temperature water. Consider this cleaning to be a ‘car wash.’ If you want a more thorough cleaning, go to the jeweler where you bought the ring. They can steam, sonic clean, and even polish your ring. Consider this cleaning to be a ‘full detailing.’
Another method for cleaning it at home is to place it in a bowl of water with a few drops of regular dish detergent, then rinse and dry with a soft cloth. Alexandrite is hard, but not as hard or as long-lasting as diamond. As a result, you should remove it before doing heavy cleaning, exercising, swimming, or coming into contact with any chemical.
Alexandrite Gemstone History
Alexandrite was discovered in 1834 in Ural emerald mines near the Tokovaya River. According to legend, it was discovered on the same day that Russian tsar Alexander II reached the age of majority, thus the name alexandrite. Because it depicts the colors red and green, which were prevalent in old Imperial Russia, it was designated as the national stone of Tsarist Russia. This regal history, combined with the stone’s rarity, makes it feel even more special and exclusive.
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