So, you’ve got your eyes set on a stunning alexandrite, but the nagging doubt of authenticity lingers. Fret not! Distinguishing between real Russian alexandrite and its counterfeit counterpart is an art, and we’ve got the canvas for you.
Unmasking the Impostors: A Beginner’s Guide
Color Change: The Chameleon Effect
Real alexandrite is the ultimate mood ring of gemstones. It flaunts a captivating shift from vibrant green to sultry red in varying lights. The impostors might mimic the transformation, but it’s the authenticity that delivers the jaw-dropping spectacle.
The Price Tag: A True Gem’s Worth
Let’s talk numbers. Authentic Russian alexandrite is like a rare unicorn in the gemstone world, and that rarity comes with a hefty price tag. If you stumble upon an alexandrite deal that seems too good to be true, trust your instincts—it probably is.
Clarity: The Clear Winner
Real alexandrite is like a clear summer sky—no clouds in sight. Authentic stones are typically eye-clean, devoid of visible inclusions. Fakes, on the other hand, might sport flaws that spill the secret.
Hardness: Scratching the Surface
Alexandrite flexes its muscle with a hardness rating of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. It’s no pushover. Fakes might not withstand the test of time, being softer and more prone to scratches.
Spectroscopy: The Scientific Sherlock
Gemologists don their detective hats and use spectroscopy to unravel the chemical makeup of gemstones. Real alexandrite spills its secrets with a distinctive absorption spectrum.
Additional Tips for the Sharp-eyed Detective
Imperfections: Embrace the Flaws
Real alexandrite is nature’s masterpiece, not a flawless machine-made creation. If the stone appears too perfect, it might be a red flag.
Color Intensity: Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold
Authentic alexandrite dances between a medium to dark green in daylight and a seductive red in incandescent light. Any extremes—too dark or too light—hint at a possible counterfeit.
The Price Trap: A Trap Indeed
It’s the age-old wisdom: if it’s too cheap to be true, it probably isn’t. Real alexandrite is a rare treasure, not a bargain-bin find.
Consult the Gemologist: The Final Verdict
When in doubt, seek the wisdom of a gemologist. These wizards of stones wield their expertise to unveil the truth behind the sparkle.
Conclusion
In the world of gemstones, the real from the fake can be a perplexing puzzle. But armed with the knowledge of color dynamics, pricing cues, clarity, hardness, and the magic of spectroscopy, you’re well-equipped to decipher the riddles of real Russian alexandrite.
Embrace the imperfections, relish the color symphony, and let the authenticity of this rare gemstone speak to your heart.
Happy gemstone hunting, fellow adventurer!
Also Read: What Does the Alexandrite Stone Represent
