Natural Alexandrite is in the chrysoberyl family of gemstones. Like other types of chrysoberyls, it contains iron and titanium. But, what differentiates it from other types of chrysoberyl is that it also contains chromium as a major impurity. The chromium is what causes those amazing color-changing qualities. This is so important to the stone because only chrysoberyls displaying a determined change of color can be carefully true Alexandrite.
Differentiating Genuine and Natural Alexandrite From Lab-Created and Simulated Stones
Lab-Created Alexandrite
The best potential of lab-created Alexandrite is made by Czochralski pulling - which tends to be an costly method used to originate this stone. This method was devised to grow high potential crystals for the computer industry. It was quickly discovered that the crystal potential from this method was very desirable for creating gem-quality gemstones for jewelry. Lab-created stones are often referred to as "Lab Alex" and have a similar chemical composition and the same physical properties as the genuine thing.
Lab-created gems are some of the finest stones you can buy for the money. In most cases, the clarity in lab-created stones is far superior to natural stones. You can have a stone with all the properties of the natural stone - without the inclusions. Also, the cost of natural Alexandrite is cost-prohibitive for the mean person.
These lab-created stones are carefully fine gem potential . The Czochralski is the best lab-created Alexandrite technique available. However, beware of sellers who try to pass off stones created from Corundum as Czochralski stones. They will not have the same quality.
Simulated (Or Imitation) Alexandrite
Simulated Alexandrites are also created in the lab; however, they don't necessarily have the same physical properties or chemical composition as natural stones. The only similarities they share with genuine and natural stone is their color and appearance. Most simulated stones are made of "lab corundum," "lab cubic zirconia," or glass.
Beware of sellers who call their simulated stones "lab created." It would be more appropriate for them to refer to it as Cz, glass, simulated stones, or imitation stones. Beware of imitation Alexandrite created from glass. They are not durable, do not have the same appearance and potential as the natural ones, and should be avoided.
Conclusion
While we would all love to own a two carat genuine and natural Alexandrite gemstone ring, the reality is that most of us can't shell out that kind of money. So, the next best thing is a lab-created gemstone created using the Czochralski method. You can purchase a large, eye-catching stone for the price of a typical amethyst or peridot. These beautiful stones are priced so that every person - no matter what their funds - can enjoy the beauty of owning an Alexandrite.
Differentiating Genuine and Natural Alexandrite From Lab-Created and Simulated Stones
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