2. Many gemstones have links to a historic past, but few claim the colorful history of alexandrite. Discovered in the 1830s, in emerald mines of Russia’s Ural Mountains, the stone was destined for greatness, thanks to its: Rarity – it was unknown anywhere else in the world. Changeability – only alexandrite changes colors so dramatically, from blue-green in daylight to red-purple at night. Colors – this remarkable gem had just the right blend of Tsarist Russia’s official flag, red and green, leading to its adoption as the national stone.

3. Alexandrite was named for the young tsar, Alexander II, forever linking it to the turbulent history of this ruler and the Russian nation. Alexander was highly educated, spoke five languages, and was the first ruler to travel to the far reaches of his domain. Despite his bold decision to free Russian serfs in 1861, Alexander was assassinated in 1881, at the hands of dissatisfied revolutionaries.

4. The richly colored stone, originally found only in the Urals, is now mined in other parts of the world too, although scarce Russian stones are considered more collectable. An important new source of alexandrite was discovered in 1987 in Hematita, Brazil. These stones show very good clarity and color change. Additional sources of alexandrite are found in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and other locations, though colors are not considered comparable to Russian stones.

5. Part of the mystery and intrigue of jewels comes from their origins deep in the Earth. Perhaps the geologic forces that produced such a rarity explain our attraction to it. Alexandrite is a chrysoberyl, containing iron, titanium, and chromium. Chromium is the special element that causes its astounding color changes. Beryllium and chromium are found together, which is extremely rare in nature, while the lack of silica—also highly unusual— prevents the growth of emerald.

6. June babies get to pick from several traditional birthstones, unlike most who have just one choice. The month of June can be commemorated with alexandrite, moonstone, or pearl. Alexandrite’s unique color-changing ability is said to inspire creativity and bolster intuition when solving difficult problems.

7. This mysterious gem is best displayed in your choice of natural alexandrite rings. Settings can be white or yellow gold, contemporary to traditional. Sparkling diamonds around the center stone bring out its colors. Buy from reputable dealers, like Alaska Jewelry, who have the expertise to assess the true value and explain the history of this rare gem.Buy from reputable dealers, like Alaska Jewelry If budget allows, you could acquire a true natural Russian Alexandrite ring—among the very rarest gems in the world, with ideal color transitions.

8. High values are not limited to Russian stones. A 1.55 carat natural Brazilian alexandrite stone in emerald cut, and with GIA certification, is priced to match its eye-popping beauty and size.A 1.55 carat natural Brazilian alexandrite stone in emerald cut, and with GIA certification Shape or cut of the ring conveys differing personalities and qualities in the stone itself. Look for alexandrite jewelry that expresses your individuality. Find cushion or emerald cuts, princess cuts, pear-shaped, or triangular trillions.

9. How to tell if your stone is natural or not? The better synthetic stones can only be identified by gemologists through magnification. They study inclusions, like curved striations or gas bubbles, to determine the process used to grow synthetic stones. Some versions achieve very good colors and color-change, though few equal the Russian gems. As a result, they are more affordable. Synthetic alexandrite has existed since 1909, and should be labeled as cultured, laboratory grown, or created, but not as a gemstone. It is found in jewelry today, and in many heirloom pieces thought to be natural.

10. Alaska Jewelry is a family- owned business located in Sitka, Alaska. Sitka was the capital of Russian America, and this connection with Russia is what inspired them to become experts in Russia's most famous gemstone, and build one of world's best selections of natural Alexandrite jewelry. Contact Alaska Jewelry at 1- 800-360-5744 or visit www.alaskajewelry.com. www.alaskajewelry.com