History and Meaning of Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a variety of Chrysoberyl that is known for its ability to change colors in different lighting conditions. It typically exhibits a green to blue color in daylight and a red to purple color in incandescent light. Alexandrite is often called “Emerald by day, Ruby by night”. Its unique coloration is due to the presence of chromium in the stone’s crystal structure. Alexandrite was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s, and it quickly became very popular. The color change was said to be an omen of good luck, and it was seen as a symbol of the changing seasons. Alexandrite is considered a symbol of hope and change.
This stone was named after Alexander II, the Tsar of Russia at the time. And because Alexandrite shows red and green colors which happened to be the military colors of Old Imperial Russia, Alexandrite is considered the national stone of Russia. Today, it can also be found in other countries, including Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe. However, the finest specimens of Alexandrite still come from Russia’s Ural Mountains.
Due to its rarity and desirability, Alexandrite commands high prices on the gemstone market. In fact, it is one of the most expensive gems in the world, with some pieces selling for tens of thousands of dollars per carat. Rare specimens that exhibit a vivid color change are especially sought after among collectors and can fetch an even higher price.
Alexandrite is one of the hardest stones, with a Mohs hardness rating of 8.5. This makes it more resistant to scratches, and less likely to chip or break than softer gems. Its toughness also makes Alexandrite well-suited for use in jewelry, as it can stand up to everyday wear and tear without losing its luster.
Zodiac Sign of Alexandrite
Gemini is represented by the symbol of the twins, reflecting the duality of its nature. Known for their versatility and intelligence, Geminis love to explore and experiment. However, this constant stimulation can sometimes lead to restlessness and anxiety. Alexandrite is known to benefit those born under the Gemini sign. This beautiful stone is said to enhance intuition and promote inner peace, helping Geminis to remain calm and grounded during times of stress. Additionally, Alexandrite is believed to stimulate creativity and boost self-confidence, encouraging Geminis to pursue their passions and reach their fullest potential.
Characteristics
Chemical Composition: BeAlâ‚‚Oâ‚„
Crystal System: Orthorhombic
Occurrence: Russia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe
Hardness: 8.5
Associated Chakra: Heart Chakra, Crown Chakra
Physical Healing Properties
In addition to its striking appearance, Alexandrite also has a number of physical healing properties. For example, the stone is said to help with detoxification and weight loss. It is also believed to improve circulation and aid in the regeneration of cells.
Alexandrite has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for those suffering from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. It benefits the male reproductive system by improving sperm motility, count, and quality. This can be attributed to its detoxification properties which help remove toxins from the body.
Alexandrite can be used to treat issues with the pancreas and spleen. It stimulates the detoxification process, which helps remove toxins from the body. The stone improves lymphatic drainage, allowing the body to get rid of waste products more efficiently.
Mental and Emotional Healing Properties
Alexandrite is a stone of balance and mental clarity. It brings emotions into harmony and dispels negative thought patterns. It is especially beneficial if you tend to swing between extremes, such as those with bipolar disorder. Alexandrite helps you to ground and center yourself, giving you a stable anchor in times of stress. Promoting a positive outlook on life, it helps boost self-esteem and confidence.
If you are grieving, Alexandrite can help to ease the pain of loss. It encourages you to look toward the future with hope and optimism.
In relationships it opens up communication lines, allowing you to express yourself more clearly. It breaks down walls of misunderstanding and restores connection and harmony. Alexandrite encourages you to be true to yourself and to strengthen your emotional boundaries.
Alexandrite enables you to accurately understand the emotions of others. This ability can help you foster better communication with those around you. It can also be a helpful trait if you are looking to improve your emotional intelligence.
Metaphysical Properties
The heart and crown chakras are two energy centers that play an important role in one’s spiritual journey and overall well-being. The heart chakra is associated with the qualities of love, compassion, and emotional healing, while the crown chakra governs our connection with the divine and our higher consciousness. These two chakras work hand in hand, and when balanced, can lead to a deeper sense of unity and purpose.
With its delicate balance of red and green hues, Alexandrite aids in the release of emotional blockages that may hinder our ability to connect with our heart and with the divine. By working with this powerful gemstone, you can open yourself up to deeper levels of love, understanding, and spiritual fulfillment.
Alexandrite is an excellent stone for meditation, as its calming energy helps to get to a deeper connection with your inner self. It makes it easier for you to be in the present moment and access higher states of consciousness. By attuning yourself to the frequencies of Alexandrite, you can open up a clearer channel for divine inspiration and guidance. In this way, Alexandrite facilitates spiritual growth and personal transformation.
Alexandrite vs Amethyst
The obvious difference between Alexandrite and Amethyst is that Alexandrite can change colors, depending on the lighting conditions. In daylight, Alexandrite emits a color ranging from blue to green but when in incandescent light it becomes a purple to red colored stone. Amethyst, on the other hand, does not change color but instead has a steady purple hue, regardless of the light conditions.
Alexandrite is a variety of Chrysoberyl, which is composed of beryllium aluminum oxide (BeAlâ‚‚Oâ‚„), while Amethyst is a form of Quartz, made up of silicon dioxide (SiO2).
Alexandrite is a rare and valuable stone, so it is quite costly. Amethyst, however, is an affordable stone and is widely available.
Best Crystal Combinations
When combining crystals, it is important to consider the metaphysical properties of each stone. Alexandrite works best when combined with other stones that hold a similar energy vibration.
Fluorite
Fluorite is an excellent stone to pair with Alexandrite because it helps to create a harmonious balance between the heart and crown chakras. It also encourages clarity of thought and boosts your ability to focus.
Pink Tourmaline
Pink tourmaline works well with Alexandrite as it opens up the heart chakra and amplifies feelings of love, peace, and compassion. Together, these two stones promote emotional healing and invigorate the soul.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli is an ideal companion to Alexandrite because it helps to expand your spiritual awareness and encourage spiritual growth. Lapis Lazuli also stimulates the higher chakras, allowing for greater access to divine knowledge and guidance. When combined, these two stones create a powerful connection to the divine.
How to Cleanse Alexandrite
It is important to cleanse your Alexandrite regularly to ensure that its metaphysical properties are as powerful and effective as possible. Cleansing releases any built-up negative energies from the stone, allowing it to emit its most potent vibrations.
One of the most effective ways to cleanse your Alexandrite is through smudging. Smudging involves burning herbs such as Sage or Sweetgrass and wafting the smoke around your stone with a feather or your hand. This will clear away any unwanted energies from your Alexandrite. Another way to cleanse your Alexandrite is through sound. Using a singing bowl or a bell will clear away any dense vibrations from your stone.
Final Thoughts
Alexandrite is a powerful gemstone with many metaphysical properties. It opens up the heart and crown chakra, promotes emotional healing, and amplifies spiritual awareness. It is an ideal stone if you are looking to make a connection with your inner self and access higher states of consciousness.