Alexandrite, a breathtakingly beautiful gem with a unique color-changing trait, holds a distinctive place in the world of healing crystals. Esteemed for its chameleon-like qualities – its hue shifting from green in daylight to red under incandescent light – it turns a commonplace room into an interactive spectacle of color. This crystal’s fame extends beyond mere aesthetics, as it’s packed with valuable healing properties that are much sought-after in various metaphysical practices.
General Information
Common Name
The gem is widely recognized as Alexandrite, with the fame attached to its name making it fairly easy to identify.
Scientific Name
From a scientific viewpoint, Alexandrite is a variety of Chrysoberyl – a mineral species boasting an aluminate of beryllium.
Alternative Names
Fundamentally a color-change chrysoberyl, this gem may be also referred to as diaphanite, particularly in old mineralogy texts.
Color and Appearance
Alexandrite’s dramatic color shift is truly its trademark. The colors vary from green in daylight – often resembling a fine emerald – to a raspberry red when illuminated by incandescent light. This effect, known as “Alexandrite Effect”, is caused by the mineral’s uncommon light-absorbing properties.
Crystal Structure
Boasting an orthorhombic crystal system, Alexandrite tends to form columnar and tabular crystals. This structure contributes to the gem’s unique pleochroism, which is the ability to exhibit different colors when viewed from different angles.
Hardness
Alexandrite carries an impressive 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. This places it just below diamond and corundum, making it one of the hardest and most durable gemstones.
Sources and Origin
This majestic gem was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia. Today, it can also be found in Sri Lanka, East Africa, and Brazil, among others. Alexandrite forms in pegmatites and mica schist, which are subjected to intense heat and pressure over time.
Rarity and Availability
Alexandrite is a rare gemstone, especially in larger sizes and superior qualities. It’s generally more available in the commercial gem market than in the wild, where it’s hard to come by.
Historical Background and Lore
Named after Tsar Alexander II of Russia, Alexandrite was fittingly discovered on his birthday in 1830. The stone quickly became emblematic of the Russian aristocracy due to its color-changing ability which matches the Russian Imperial colors: green and red. Historical lore suggests that Alexandrite brings luck, good fortunes, and love.
Correspondences and Associations
Zodiac Sign Correspondence
Gemini is the sign that resonates the most with Alexandrite. Geminis are known for their dual nature and versatility, much like the stone’s color-changing properties.
Chakra Alignment
Alexandrite’s dynamic nature connects with the heart chakra, promoting emotional healing, love, and compassion.
Planetary Connection
Mercury, known for its fluidity and communication skills, is the planet that links closest with Alexandrite.
Elemental Association
Due to its chromatic transformation from green to red, Alexandrite is associated with the elemental energies of both Earth and Fire.
Healing Properties
Physical Healing Properties
Though no scientific evidence supports these claims, Alexandrite is traditionally believed to aid with ailments related to the nervous system, spleen, and pancreas. It’s also said to boost sexual function and treat testicular disorders.
Spiritual Healing Energies
Alexandrite’s spiritual energies promote self-esteem and the ability to experience joy and beauty. It aids in aligning mental and emotional bodies, encouraging a positive outlook and a strong sense of self.
Emotional Healing Properties
In the realm of emotional healing, Alexandrite works remarkably as a rejuvenating agent. It’s believed to inspire courage to justly face changes and challenges, balancing emotions, and fostering creativity and imagination.
Usage and Application
How to Use
You can wear Alexandrite as jewelry, carry it as a stone, or place it on relevant parts of the body during healing practices.
Charging and Activation Tips
Just like many other crystals, you can charge Alexandrite under moonlight or sunlight. Meditation while holding the stone can also help activate its energies.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Due to Alexandrite’s hardness, it’s relatively easy to clean with mild soap and warm water. It’s also recommended to house it separately to prevent any possible scratches from other less hard stones.
Precautions and Considerations
Although Alexandrite is quite hard, it still requires gentle handling to avoid chipping. It’s always important to remember that while Alexandrite can serve as a supplement, it should not replace medical treatment.
Synergy with Other Crystals
Related Crystals or Complementary Pairings
Alexandrite pairs well with other heart chakra stones like Rose Quartz or Emerald. When used together, these crystals can enhance each other’s vibrations, creating a stronger impact on emotional balance and healing.
Conclusion
Summary
To wrap up, Alexandrite’s unique dual-color feature is its true magic – a radiant spectacle that significantly sets it apart from any other stone. Aside from its visual allure, its healing properties are potent, permeating areas of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Further Exploration
For those who are intrigued by Alexandrite, look for books or sources delving deeper into its history, characteristic, and applications. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences of how this mystical gem has influenced your personal journey.
