When it comes to choosing a gemstone for an engagement ring, diamonds may dominate the conversation, but they’re not the only option. Many of those looking for something unique have asked themselves, “is alexandrite a good stone for an engagement ring?” Let’s dive into everything you need to know about alexandrite as a center stone for a gemstone engagement ring.
What Is Alexandrite?
Alexandrite was discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia during the 1830s. It was named after Czar Alexander II. Today, you’ll find alexandrite from places like Sri Lanka, Brazil, and East Africa, but stones from Russia hold the best quality.
What really sets alexandrite apart is its incredible color-changing ability. In natural daylight, it’s a vibrant green or bluish-green. Under incandescent light, it shifts to a reddish-purple hue. Some alexandrite stones may appear more purplish than red. For this reason, it’s often called the “emerald by day, ruby by night.” Alexandrite is also the birthstone for the month of June, alongside the pearl.
Culturally, alexandrite has been associated with good fortune, prosperity, and balance. Its ability to change colors is often linked to adaptability and harmony. It is a symbol of resilience in relationships. In Russia it is a national gem and is believed to bring luck and strengthen intuition.
In metaphysical circles, alexandrite is thought to open the heart and mind to joy and change. It’s often associated with renewal and personal growth, making it an excellent choice for a stone that represents a lifelong commitment.
Natural Alexandrite vs Lab-Created Alexandrite
Natural alexandrite is so rare that fine specimens can be more valuable than diamonds! The larger the stone, the more expensive and valuable you can expect it to be. Natural alexandrite is one of the rarest gemstones on Earth, and its value reflects that.
If you’re in love with alexandrite but don’t want to break the bank, lab-created options are an excellent choice. These stones are grown in controlled environments and replicate the color change and durability of natural alexandrite at a fraction of the cost.
High-quality natural alexandrite stones can cost upwards of $10,000 per carat. In contrast, lab-created alexandrite offers the same beauty for much less.
Choosing a Quality Alexandrite Stone for an Engagement Ring
When looking for a high quality alexandrite, you should adhere to the 4Cs. Considering the shape of an alexandrite is a good idea too.
- Cut Quality: The right cut enhances alexandrite’s color-changing properties by allowing light to interact with the gem in just the right way.
- Color: The most prized alexandrite has a vivid green-to-red color change.
- Clarity: Clear stones with minimal inclusions are more valuable.
- Carat Weight: Larger stones are extremely rare and highly sought after.
- Shape: The shape of an alexandrite can significantly enhance its color-changing effect.
For a truly one-of-a-kind piece, AW Jewelry offers custom cutting services, ensuring your alexandrite shines in a shape that you won’t find at traditional brick-and-mortar retailers.
Is Alexandrite Durable for an Engagement Ring?
Yes, alexandrite is a good stone for an engagement ring. Alexandrite scores an impressive 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it resistant to scratches. Its excellent tenacity and stability mean it can withstand daily wear. Still, it’s best to treat it with care to avoid chips or cracks from hard impacts.
Settings to Protect an Alexandrite Engagement Ring
The right setting can make all the difference in keeping your alexandrite safe and secure. Here are a few ideas:
- Bezel Setting: Encases the stone in a protective metal rim, ideal for active lifestyles.
- Halo Setting: Surrounds the stone with smaller diamonds or gemstones for added sparkle and protection.
- Six-Prong Setting: Provides better stability than four prongs.
Why Choose AW Jewelry for Your Alexandrite Engagement Ring?
At AW Jewelry, we’re passionate about helping you create an engagement ring. We can source natural or lab created alexandrite for an alexandrite engagement ring. Not only is alexandrite good for an engagement ring, you can create a custom alexandrite engagement ring with personalization using our custom cutting or engraving services.
Our expert jewelers will guide you every step of the way. Let’s create something extraordinary together. Contact us today to start designing your custom alexandrite engagement ring and make your dream ring a reality!
