Crystal Clear
Clarity in gemstones is a critical factor that affects both their beauty and value, and Alexandrite is no exception. Known for its dramatic color-changing properties, the clarity of Alexandrite can significantly influence how these colors are perceived and, ultimately, the stone’s overall appeal and worth. In this blog post, we’ll explore what clarity means in the context of Alexandrite, discuss the common types of inclusions found in these gemstones, and provide practical tips for assessing clarity when making a purchase.
Understanding Clarity in Gemstones
Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions or blemishes in a gemstone. Inclusions are naturally occurring characteristics such as minerals, fractures, or cavities, while blemishes are surface imperfections. Clarity is one of the key criteria in grading gemstones, with the level of clarity ranging from flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to included (inclusions visible to the naked eye).
Common Types of Inclusions in Alexandrite
Alexandrite, like all gemstones, can have various types of inclusions. Some of the most common include:
- Needle-like inclusions: Fine, needle-shaped inclusions that can either enhance the gem’s value if they produce desirable optical effects like chatoyancy, or decrease it if they are too prominent.
- Crystals and mineral inclusions: Tiny crystals or minerals that were trapped within the gemstone during its formation. Depending on their size and location, these can either be interesting features or detract from the gem’s clarity and colour presentation.
- Feathers: These are small fractures within the gemstone that can look like feathers when viewed under magnification. Depending on their severity, they can impact the gem’s durability.
How Inclusions Affect Alexandrite’s Aesthetics and Value
The clarity of Alexandrite plays a pivotal role in how vividly it displays its color change. High clarity Alexandrite with minimal inclusions will generally have a more pronounced and desirable color change effect, leading to a higher valuation. Conversely, stones with significant inclusions can obscure the colour change, reducing both their aesthetic appeal and market value.
However, some inclusions are considered acceptable given the rarity of Alexandrite, especially if they do not significantly impede the stone’s colour change or are cleverly hidden by the setting in jewellery.
Tips for Evaluating Clarity in Alexandrite
When assessing the clarity of Alexandrite, consider these tips:
- Use the right tools: Examining Alexandrite under 10x magnification, typically with a jeweller’s loupe, allows you to see the type and extent of inclusions.
- Seek expert advice: Consulting with a reputable gemmologist or jeweller can help in understanding the impact of specific inclusions on a stone’s value.
- Compare stones: Viewing multiple stones can provide a benchmark for judging clarity and understanding how it affects price and appearance.
- Consider the setting: Sometimes, the choice of setting can enhance the appearance of the gemstone, making minor inclusions less noticeable.
Conclusion
While perfect clarity is rare in Alexandrite, understanding and evaluating inclusions can help you make an informed purchase decision. Remember, the ultimate goal is to find a balance between a stone’s aesthetic qualities and its value, ensuring that your Alexandrite gemstone not only captivates with its color change but also meets your expectations in clarity and overall appeal.