Alexandrite
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Alexandrite, a type of chrysoberyl, is named after the Russian Czar Alexander II (1818-1881), and was first discovered and mined in the Urals just as he came into power. It is an extremely rare gem; especially in its highest quality. The finest alexandrite actually changes it color from blue/green to honey red or raspberry, depending upon the quality of light. It is considered the Russian national gemstone.
Today, alexandrite, particularly the highest quality material which changes color, is highly sought after. Some gems are coming out of Brazil, Sri Lanka and other parts of the world. Russia still produces some of these gems in a limited quantity. Some people think that, due to the mysterious ability to change colors, the gem aids intuition, imagination and creativity.
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