Color-changing gemstones are always those that hold a certain allure for the avid gem enthusiast or collector. Unique stones with the incredible ability to change colors under changing lights, color-changing gemstones are not only beautiful to behold but also mesmerizing in the process. This all-inclusive guide will take us through the realm of color-changing gemstones-from their science and types to their history-and conclude with how to buy and care for one of these beautiful gems. If you are looking for a way to expand your knowledge or purchase one of these gems, then this guide is for you!
What Are Color-Changing Gemstones?
These are truly rare and fantastic kinds of gems that change color when observed under different light sources, such as natural sunlight, incandescent light, or fluorescent light. Pleochroism, also known as the color change phenomenon, is a name given to the underlying phenomenon responsible for this optical effect; it takes place because certain types of gemstones absorb or reflect light in diverse ways.
The most recognized and trending color-changing gemstone is alexandrite, changing from green in daylight to red or purplish-red under incandescent light. However, alexandrite is not the only gemstone that holds such a property; others also exist: sapphire, garnet, fluorite, and many more with their magical quality of color change.
Science Behind Colour Change
The color-change effect in gemstones is attributed to their unique crystal form and interaction with light. When the light hits the gemstone, it absorbs, reflects, or refracts the hue from the light. What makes color-changing gemstones different in atomic structure is that they absorb specific wavelengths of light depending upon the nature of the source of light used to illuminate them. This disparity in absorption makes the gemstone one color under natural light and quite another color when hit with artificial light.
The most important factor in terms of color change is the content of trace elements; that includes chromium, vanadium, or iron. These are what bring the differences in light absorption and therefore the color changes.
Contributing Factors to Color Change
Crystal Structure: What happens inside the gemstone impacts how light behaves when it passes through.
Chemical Composition: Trace elements such as chromium and vanadium contribute significantly to the color changes
Light Source: Wavelength and intensity of light can act on the gemstone to reflect light hence resulting in color change.
Color Changing Gemstones Types
There are many different forms of color-changing gemstones with unique color palettes and properties. Some of the most notable color-changing gems include:
Alexandrite
The most well-known color-changing gemstone probably is the Alexandrite that dramatically changes from green under daylight, to red or purplish-red under incandescent light. 1830 Russian discovery, alexandrite is a type of chrysoberyl that shows a color-change phenomenon because it contains chromium.
Alexandrite is one of the priciest and rarest gemstones in the world. Its beautiful color change property, as well as historical value, makes it a darling for collectors and connoisseurs.
Color-Change Sapphire
It is worth mentioning that for centuries, sapphires have been known in their deep blue variety. However, some sapphires have an extraordinary phenomenon-they change their color. Color-change sapphires might change under incandescent light from blue to purple or violet, which they appear in daylight. This phenomenon is often created by trace elements, in particular, iron and titanium.
Color-change sapphires are very rare and highly valued and therefore sought after very dearly in the world of gemstones.
Color-Change Garnet
Color-change garnet is the other amazing stone that has an extraordinary and dramatic change in color. Under daylight, it can be green, yellow, or brown in color. Under incandescent light, they change to red, pink, or purple. Such garnets which show this color-change effect are truly rare and valuable.
Color-Change Fluorite
Although fluorite is not as hard as some other gemstones on this list, it can display very striking color change. Fluorite can easily change from purple or blue in daylight to green under artificial lighting. What makes fluorite such a very popular gemstone, in addition to its relatively low price, are some amazing colors.
Color-Change Diaspore (Zultanite)
Diaspore is a rare colored gemstone which displays a subtle color change. Diaspore can turn green in daylight and pink or champagne under incandescent light. The rarity and beauty of this stone have automatically positioned it as collector’s favorite.
1. Buy from a Reputable Dealer
Buy color-changing gemstones only from a reputable dealer or jeweler who issues proper certification for your stones. This way, you can be sure that the color-changing gemstone you’re going to purchase is legit and tested for its said color-changing properties.
2. Observe the Stone under Different Lights
This is before you purchase the gemstone. Observe it under natural and artificial lighting to fully appreciate its color-changing abilities. Make sure you do not get it but rather have met your expectations.
3. Ask for Certification
Request a certificate from a laboratory known to grade the stone. It will confirm its genuineness, colour changing properties, and other distinctive features of the gemstone.
4. Consider the Cut and Clarity
Although color-change is the primary characteristic of these stones, cut and clarity can also play a big role in adding beauty to your gem. Choose a stone that has a well-cut piece which allows the light to pass through to get the maximum effect of color-change.
5. Set a Budget
The price of the color-changing gemstones is unreasonably high based on rare factors like stone size, quality, and high intensity of color change. One needs to set a budget before going to shop and be ready to pay for a good-quality stone.
Care for Your Gemstone
Keep your color-changing gemstone away from other jewelry pieces to avoid scratches. Place it in a soft pouch or in a lined jewelry box to keep the dust and moisture off.
Avoid extreme conditions
Color-changing gemstones are stronger but can easily break due to extreme temperatures or due to some exposure of light. Keep it away from that kind of activities or incidences that would expose it to extreme conditions.
Conclusion
Color-changing gemstones are simply fascinating – just about magical, as if you see right before your eyes how color changes are caused by different lighting environments. Whether it is dramatic, like in the case of alexandrite, or changed in a more subtle way, as with zultanite, this must definitely captivate and enchant.
When you are purchasing a colour-changing gem, go for dealers or sellers that are reputed to be authentic and ask to see certification. Examine the stone under different lighting conditions. With proper care, your gemstone will be an absolute treasure in your collection for years to come.
Experience the charm of color-changing gemstones and discover for yourself the mystique embedded in these rare and unusual jewels.
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