A Comprehensive Guide to Purchasing Lab Alexandrite

Your Guide to buying the best Lab Alexandrite

Overview

"Comprehensive Guide to Purchasing Lab Alexandrite" Alexandrite is a unique gemstone renowned for its remarkable color-changing properties. However, natural Alexandrite is rare and can be prohibitively expensive. This is where Lab Alexandrite comes into the picture, offering the same stunning visual appeal at a fraction of the cost. This guide is designed to help you make an informed decision when buying Lab Alexandrite, covering crucial aspects such as color, clarity, cut, carat weight, and cost, as well as providing tips on where and how to purchase this beautiful synthetic gemstone.

Key features

  • Color Change: Consider the color change quality of the lab Alexandrite. The stone should exhibit a dramatic color shift from a teal or green hue in daylight to a purplish-red under incandescent light.
  • Clarity: Lab Alexandrite should be virtually flawless. Inspect the stone for any inclusions or blemishes that could affect its clarity.
  • Cut: Choose a well-cut Alexandrite as it directly impacts the stone's brilliance and color change effect. A poorly cut stone may appear less vibrant or exhibit less color change.
  • Carat Weight: Lab Alexandrite can be created in large sizes without sacrificing quality. However, the price per carat does increase with size, so choose a carat weight that fits within your budget.
  • Price: Compare prices from different vendors. Lab-created Alexandrite should be significantly less expensive than the natural stone, but prices can still vary depending on the quality and size of the stone.
  • Vendor Reputation: Buy from a reputable vendor who provides clear information about the stone's origin, treatment, and has a fair return policy. Always ask for a certificate of authenticity.

See the most popular Lab Alexandrite on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Affordable: Lab-created Alexandrite is much more affordable than its natural counterpart, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
  • Environmentally Friendly: Since lab-created stones do not require mining, they have less environmental impact compared to naturally occurring stones.
  • Consistent Quality: Lab-created Alexandrite has a consistent quality and color, ensuring you get the exact hue and clarity that you desire.
  • Durability: Lab Alexandrite is created under controlled conditions, which often results in a more durable stone that is resistant to scratches and damages.
  • Availability: Lab-created Alexandrite is readily available in various shapes and sizes, unlike natural Alexandrite which can be rare and hard to find.

Cons

  • Color Variation: Lab-created alexandrite may not display the same dramatic color change as natural alexandrite. It's important to ask for photos or view the gemstone in different lighting situations to confirm the color change.
  • Size Limitation: Because of the techniques used to grow these stones in lab, there might be size limitations. They might not be as large as natural alexandrite.
  • Value: Lab alexandrite doesn't hold the same value as natural alexandrite. While it may look similar and have similar properties, its resale value can be significantly lower.
  • Perceived Authenticity: Some people value natural gemstones more than lab-created ones, considering the latter to be 'fake' or 'less authentic'. Even though lab-created alexandrite has the same physical and chemical properties as natural alexandrite, the perception difference can be a drawback for some buyers.

Best alternatives

  1. Natural Alexandrite - This is the real, mined version of Alexandrite which is quite rare and expensive. It displays a fascinating color-change phenomenon and is a great choice for those who value natural gemstones.
  2. Lab-Created Sapphire - This gemstone is produced in a lab but is identical in every way to natural sapphires. It's also a color-changing gem and is more affordable than both natural Alexandrite and Lab Alexandrite.
  3. Cubic Zirconia - This is a synthetic gemstone that is optically flawless and usually colorless, but can be made in a variety of different colors. It's an affordable option for those who want a dazzling gemstone on a budget.
  4. Moissanite - This gemstone is very similar to diamond in terms of its brilliance and hardness, but much more affordable. It's a great alternative if you're looking for something that's close to a diamond but without the high price tag.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Jewelry Loupe: This is a small magnifying glass used by jewelers to see intricate details or to evaluate the quality of gems like lab Alexandrite.
  • Gemstone Tweezers: These are used to hold and handle small gemstones without the risk of damage.
  • Gemstone Cleaning Kit: This is essential for maintaining the sparkle and brilliance of your lab Alexandrite.
  • Jewelry Box: A padded box can protect your Alexandrite from scratches and other potential damages.
  • Certificate of Authenticity: While not a physical tool, this document is crucial when purchasing lab Alexandrite to verify its quality and origin.

Common questions

  1. What is Lab Alexandrite?
    Lab Alexandrite is a synthetic version of the gemstone Alexandrite, created in a lab under controlled conditions. It has the same physical properties and chemical composition as natural Alexandrite, but it is more affordable and available in larger sizes.
  2. How is Lab Alexandrite different from natural Alexandrite?
    The primary difference between lab and natural Alexandrite is their origin. While natural Alexandrite is mined from the Earth, Lab Alexandrite is created in a laboratory. Other than that, both have similar physical and optical properties, including color change.
  3. What should I look for when buying Lab Alexandrite?
    You should consider factors like color, clarity, cut, and carat size. Look for a stone that exhibits a strong color change from green to red under different lights. The gemstone should be clear with minimal inclusions, well-cut, and of the size you desire.
  4. Is Lab Alexandrite valuable?
    While Lab Alexandrite is more affordable than natural Alexandrite, it still holds considerable value because of its beauty and unique color-change property. The value increases with the quality and size of the stone.
  5. How do I care for Lab Alexandrite?
    Lab Alexandrite can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals and abrupt temperature changes. It's also advisable to remove your Alexandrite jewelry before engaging in strenuous activities to prevent it from scratches and sharp blows.

Trivia

In the mid-19th century, Alexandrite was named after the then future Tsar of Russia, Alexander II, as it was discovered on his birthday. But here's the twist - lab Alexandrite, the synthetic version we're discussing, often presents more dramatic color changes than its natural counterpart. This is particularly amusing because the lab-created stone overshadows the natural one in the feature it's most renowned for. The gemstone, which is often described as "emerald by day, ruby by night," shows such striking color change that some lab samples can appear blue-green in daylight and purplish red under incandescent light. So, while natural Alexandrite was a stone fit for a Tsar, its lab-made twin might have been even more suited to royal tastes! [source](https://www.gemsociety.org/article/lab-created-synthetic-alexandrite/)

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.