| Although relatively young compared to other | | | | used in even the same vicinity as alexandrite. |
| gemstones, alexandrite is not at a loss for history, | | | | It is traditionally accepted that alexandrite represents |
| myth and symbolism with which to surround itself. In | | | | the rational world and the quality of mental clarity. |
| the late 19th century, the Russian writer Nikolai | | | | However, the duality of its color just as traditionally |
| Semyonovich Lesov wrote a novella, "Alexandrite: | | | | represents the duality of characteristics associated |
| Mysterious Interpretation of a True Fact", wherein | | | | with this special gem. Green is the color of revival, |
| alexandrite is defined as being 'prophetic'. In his book | | | | hope, prosperity, rest, peace, calm, and fertility. The red |
| "The Key to the Grand Mysteries", the French | | | | of alexandrite connotes energy, activity, |
| Victorian author and magician Eliphas Levi referred to | | | | self-expression, power, aggression and passion. It |
| alexandrite as a mystical gem that clears and | | | | would seem that the combination that exists in |
| strengthens the blood vessels. | | | | alexandrite reflects the duality of human nature as |
| In a list of acceptable birthstones drawn up in 1912 by | | | | exemplified by love and jealousy existing side-by-side |
| the American National Association of Jewelers, the | | | | or even in the very same place. The daytime color of |
| alexandrite was among those named. In 1952 the | | | | alexandrite equates to luck and good fortune, while its |
| Jewelers Association, The Retail Jewelers Association, | | | | nighttime appearance is more closely associated with |
| and the American Gemological Society approved a | | | | love. |
| variation of this list. In it, alexandrite was designated as | | | | Many think that alexandrite speaks to a person's ability |
| an alternative to pearl as a birthstone for June. | | | | to be aware of the interconnection of all things and the |
| Interestingly, in its native Russia, alexandrite is | | | | rejuvenation and realization of self. Certainly it is |
| associated with August. In addition, alexandrite was | | | | significant that the traits of alexandrite can be modified |
| deemed appropriate to celebrate a 55th wedding | | | | and interpreted, depending on how they apply to |
| anniversary - as well as the 35th and 45th, which | | | | different eras and cultures - as well as individuals. |
| dates it would share with the emerald. Wednesday | | | | Without a doubt, the eternally changing colors of |
| became alexandrite's day in general, but especially so | | | | alexandrite endow it with a universal appeal and |
| in the case of the extremely rare cats eye alexandrite. | | | | attractiveness. With these imperial colors of another |
| Through the years it has been a common practice by | | | | time, the tsarstone continues to fascinate and spur the |
| jewelers associations whereby gemstones that are | | | | creativity as well as the romance of today. The |
| commonly available are added to "official" lists. It should | | | | beauty and rarity of alexandrite will continue to inspire |
| be noted, however, that the term 'common' is rarely | | | | the imagination of future generations. |