Do you plan to design your own ring with Alexandrite? Or, maybe you are considering making a gold and Alexandrite necklace. If this is the case, then it is important for you to understand the different types of stones and what distinguishes them.
ORIGINAL AND NATURAL ALEXANDRITE
Alexandrite naturally exists in the chrysoberyl family of gemstones. Like other types of chrysoberyl, chrysoberyl contains iron and titanium. But, what distinguishes it from other types of chrysoberyl is that it contains chromium as the main impurity. It is this chromium that causes the amazing quality of the color modifier. This is very important for stones because only chrysoberyl that shows different color changes can be considered a true Alexandrite.
ALEXANDRITE THAT MADE LAB
The best quality of Alexandrite made in the laboratory is made by Czochralski pulling - which tends to be the expensive method used to make this stone. This method is designed to grow high quality crystals for the computer industry. It was quickly discovered that the quality of the crystals from this method was highly desirable to make gem-quality gemstones for jewelry. Stones made in laboratories are often referred to as "Alex Labs" and have the same chemical composition and physical properties as the original objects.
Laboratory-made gems are some of the best stones you can buy to get money. In most nissui indonesia cases, clarity on stones made in the laboratory is far superior to natural stones. You can have a stone with all the properties of a natural stone - without inclusions. Also, the cost of natural Alexandrite is not expensive for most people.
Stones made in this laboratory are considered good quality gems. Czochralski is an Alexandrite technique created by the best laboratories available. However, beware of sellers who try to transmit stones made from Corundum as Czochralski stones. They will not have the same quality.
ALEXANDRITE SIMULATION (OR IMITATION)
Simulated Alexandrites were also made in the lab; However, they do not have to have the same physical properties or chemical composition as natural stone. The only thing they have in common with real, natural stones 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 "labs made." It would be more acceptable for them to call it CZ, glass, simulated stone, or imitation stone. Beware of imitation Alexandrite made from glass. They are not durable, do not have the same appearance and quality as natural ones, and should be avoided.
CONCLUSION
While we all want to have genuine and natural two-carved Alexandrite gemstone rings, the reality is that most of us can't spend that much money. So, the next best thing is laboratory-made gemstones that are made using the Czochralski method. You can buy attractive large stones at the price of a typical amethyst or peridot. These beautiful stones are priced so that everyone - no matter what their budget - can enjoy the beauty of having Alexandrite.
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