Alexandrite Moonstone Rings - Unique Color Change Gemstone Jewelry

The Allure of Alexandrite Moonstone Rings

Alexandrite and moonstone are two stunning gemstones that make for eye-catching jewelry. When combined into an alexandrite moonstone ring, they create a piece that is both beautiful and unique. The cool, mysterious shades of alexandrite and the ethereal glow of moonstone complement each other perfectly in these rings.

What is Alexandrite?

Alexandrite is a rare gemstone known for displaying both bluish-green and raspberry red hues. It can even show a rich purple when light hits it just right. This phenomenon of exhibiting multiple colors is called the alexandrite effect.

Alexandrite was first discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains in 1834. Gem cutters then began using it in their jewelry creations to take advantage of its mesmerizing color change properties. Due to its scarcity, alexandrite is an extremely valuable gem.

What is Moonstone?

Moonstone is a gem variety of feldspar that showcases an otherworldly sheen known as adularescence. When light hits moonstone, it appears to glow from within with bluish-white, silver, peach, or rainbow-like flashes.

Moonstone has been used in jewelry for centuries, revered in many ancient Asian cultures. In India, moonstone was a traditional wedding gift believed to symbolize new beginnings and bring good fortune to marriages.

What Makes Alexandrite Moonstone Rings Special

An alexandrite moonstone ring combines the best features of both its gemstones. The color change of the alexandrite gives the ring depth and intrigue while the shimmering sheen of the moonstone provides an airy, ethereal contrast.

Play of Color

One of the most captivating aspects of an alexandrite moonstone ring is the colorful light effects showcased in the alexandrite stone. As you move and tilt your hand, the alexandrite changes between green and red hues.

The moonstone too displays phenomenal adularescence across its surface when struck by light. Together, the color play in these rings is positively mesmerizing.

Duality and Harmony

Alexandrite embodies contrasting colors - green like the lush growth of spring and summer and red like autumn's falling leaves. This makes it a fitting birthstone for June babies who symbolize both beginnings and endings.

In harmony with this, moonstone represents new cycles and destined relationships. Its dreamy glow is thought to be magnified by the moon itself.

Alexandrite moonstone rings perfectly capture these dual, compliant energies - the diversity of vibrant color change, balanced by moonstone's harmonizing light.

Unique Statement Rings

No two alexandrite moonstone rings ever look exactly the same. Because alexandrite is extremely rare, the cut gemstones come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. Combined with varied cuts of moonstone, jewelers can create totally distinctive rings.

One-of-a-Kind Designs

From floral inspired swirls to geometric patterns, jewelers craft alexandrite moonstone rings as artworks, not mass produced pieces. Whether set in gold, silver or platinum, each ring is handmade with meticulous attention to detail.

Some rings showcase one large focal stone while others use multiple smaller gems. The settings too vary from protective basket designs to delicate prong mounts. With these unique touches, each ring is a custom, one-of-a-kind creation.

Complementary Accents

To highlight the one-of-a-kind style of alexandrite moonstone rings, jewelers often add complementary accents into the designs. These may include:

• Diamonds - small diamonds around the stones or band sparkle next to the color changing alexandrite.
• Gem accents - smaller gems like rainbow moonstone, amethyst or pink tourmaline enhance the moonstone's glow.
• Engraved bands - etched leaf patterns, symbols or phrases bring more meaning to the rings.
• Textured metalwork - hammered or matte finishes on the band contrast with the smooth gemstones.

Accent additions make each ring a personalized style statement for the wearer.

Alexandrite Moonstone Ring Care

To keep your one-of-a-kind alexandrite moonstone ring looking its best for years to come, follow these care tips:

Day-to-Day Wear

Be mindful of daily activities that could expose your ring to damage. Avoid exposing it to harsh household chemicals and take it off before physical activities where it could get knocked around.

Since moonstone rates at 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, it is vulnerable to chipping or scratches. Alexandrite, at 8.5, is tougher but also risks damage if worn constantly.

Cleaning Practices

Clean your ring once a week using warm water with mild dish soap and a very soft toothbrush. Gently scrub behind the stones to remove lotions, perfumes or dirt built up over time.

After brushing, rinse and pat dry with a soft lint-free cloth. Air drying completely prevents water spots.

Safe Storage

Keep your ring stored in a fabric-lined jewelry box, away from other gems that may scratch it. Moonstone rings should be kept away from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or high heat to prevent fading.

When not being worn, an alexandrite moonstone ring should stay protected so it maintains its exquisite beauty for many more years of admiration and wear.

FAQs

What makes alexandrite change color?

Alexandrite displays an optical phenomenon called the alexandrite effect where it appears green in natural light but changes to a raspberry red color in incandescent light. This rare color change is caused by the way the gemstone absorbs and reflects different wavelengths of light.

Is moonstone durable enough for daily wear?

While beautiful, moonstone does rate lower on the Mohs hardness scale so rings with larger moonstones or intricate carvings may be too delicate for all-day wear. However, flush set moonstone or smaller accent stones can work well for everyday jewelry.

Should alexandrite be worn every day?

Natural alexandrite is fairly durable at 8.5 on the Mohs scale, but as a very rare and valuable stone, jewelry experts often recommend saving it mainly for special occasions rather than constant daily wear to protect its condition over decades.

What metal makes the best setting?

Platinum makes the most protective setting for any gemstone jewelry. The white color also highlights the stones without overpowering them. Yellow or rose gold settings also let the uniqueness of the stones stand out while remaining timeless and beautiful.