From its mesmerizing color-changing abilities to its extraordinary symbolism, the alexandrite engagement ring is truly one of the most romantic and captivating stones for any special occasion. Not only does this mesmerizing gemstone shift between shades of green and red depending on the lighting, but it also has a deeply rooted history that adds further meaning to your ring’s unique design. Whether you are searching for an original ring with a vintage touch or looking forward to modernizing your statement piece with new trends, learning about how these stunning rings can enhance every single aspect around them will give you an exciting way to find the perfect choice. With this guide, you'll discover all there is to know when choosing an Alexandrite engagement ring; from costs and quality considerations right through to why they are considered so special!
What is Alexandrite and what are its properties?
Alexandrite is a variety of minerals chrysoberyl and is known to be one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Its color-changing properties, referred to as ‘diaphaneity’ are what make it so unique – when exposed to different lighting sources like natural daylight or artificial light, the Alexandrite will shift from teal green to raspberry red. This wide range of color variation is due to trace amounts of chromium found within its molecular structure. Due to this quality, Alexandrite was also believed by ancient cultures as having supernatural powers that could protect its wearer from evil forces.
The hardness of Alexandrite ranges between 8.5 and 9 on the Mohs scale making it very durable for everyday wear. As a result, it’s often used as the center stone in engagement rings or other jewelry pieces due to its strength and versatility.
The Price of Alexandrite Engagement Rings
The cost of your ring will depend on several factors such as the size and quality of the gemstone you choose, but generally speaking, Alexandrite is known for being one of the more expensive stones available. This is due to its rareness and complex color-changing properties – a higher-grade stone with an intense color shift will usually cost around $1500-USD 3000 per carat. However, you can also find lower-grade stones in stores which range from $50-USD 1000 per carat depending on size, clarity, and cut.
Why are Alexandrite Engagement Rings so Special?
Apart from its obvious beauty, the Alexandrite engagement ring has a deep spiritual meaning associated with it that speaks to its wearer’s innermost emotions. In ancient cultures and folklore, this stone was believed to house energies related to love and luck, with many also believing that it had protective powers against evil forces. This magical symbolism makes these stones especially meaningful for couples who want to express their unconditional love for one another through an iconic piece of jewelry.
The Difference Between Natural and Lab-Created Alexandrite
The difference between natural and lab-created Alexandrite can be quite vast. Natural alexandrite is extremely rare, which means it can often be very expensive. This type of stone is mined from the earth and must meet specific color and clarity requirements before being suitable for jewelry use. Lab-created alexandrite, on the other hand, is created in a laboratory using specific methods that allow scientists to replicate the unique properties of this semi-precious gemstone.
The main differences between natural and lab-created Alexandrite include cost, availability, durability, and quality. The cost of natural Alexandrite can vary greatly depending on its size and quality; whereas lab-created stones tend to be much more affordable as they are not in short supply. Lab-created alexandrite is also more durable than natural stones due to its uniformity, which makes it an excellent choice for everyday wear.
In terms of quality, natural Alexandrite has much greater color variation as the result of trace elements found within its makeup; whereas lab-created stones tend to have a more consistent saturation and clarity. Natural stones can also be somewhat unpredictable in terms of their color shift from teal green to raspberry red when exposed to different light sources; whereas lab-created stones tend to remain uniform regardless of the lighting conditions.
Finding The Perfect Alexandrite Engagement Ring for Your Budget
Here are a few tips that can help you find Alexandrite engagement rings that fit your budget.
• Focus on quality: While it can be tempting to go for a cheaper option, the quality of your stone is key in ensuring a long-lasting piece of jewelry. Be sure to look at factors such as clarity, cut, and color saturation when making your purchase.
• Compare prices between sellers: Shopping around will ensure that you are getting the best deal for the type of stone and design you’re looking for. Look online or visit local stores to get a better idea of the various price points available.
• Consider lab-created stones: Lab-created Alexandrite is generally more affordable than natural stones due to its availability; however, it is still important to ensure that the quality of your stone meets the standards of a natural one.
• Look for discounts: When you’re shopping online, be sure to keep an eye out for promotional codes and sales that may help you save on your purchase. Many retailers will also offer discounts if you purchase multiple items from them.
By considering these tips when looking for an Alexandrite engagement ring, you can find a unique piece of jewelry that fits within your budget without compromising on quality. With so many options available, there’s sure to be something perfect for every couple!
Conclusion
Alexandrite engagement rings are a unique and symbolic way to express your love for one another, and with the right knowledge, you can find the perfect ring to fit your budget. Whether you choose natural or lab-created stones, be sure to focus on quality and compare prices between sellers to get the best deal possible. With its enchanting color shift and timeless symbolism, an Alexandrite engagement ring is sure to be cherished for many years to come!
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