Natural alexandrite rings are known for their beauty, appeal, and hardness. Embellished with one of the most unique and rare gemstones of them all, alexandrite rings are the epitome of glam and grace. If you’re considering getting a ring embellished with alexandrite, this article will help you in getting the best out of your purchase. In this article, I’ll share with you some tips for buying natural alexandrite rings. But before we begin, let’s talk about what makes rings bedecked with alexandrite a cut above the rest. So, without further ado, let’s start.
What Makes Natural Alexandrite Rings A Cut Above The Rest?
There is something mysteriously enchanting about alexandrite rings as they stand out as nothing else does. Alexandrite rings have become the most popular rings over the years. The reason behind this inclination is none other than alexandrite. From alexandrite’s color and allure to its unique color-change property and hardness, there are so many attributes in this gemstone that makes it tickle the fancy of women of all ages. The gemstone is famous for its color-changing property. Alexandrite changes its color from green in sunlight to red in the lamplight. This is the primary reason why people like natural alexandrite rings.
It’s only because of the color-changing property of this gemstone that it got the attention of the masses. Apart from alexandrite’s unique color-changing property, what makes it catch the eye of the beholders is its excellent hardness & durability score on the Moh scale of hardness. Alexandrite scores a terrific 8.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it’s a pretty sturdy gemstone that can effortlessly withstand the rigors of everyday life.
That’s the reason why women are mad about natural alexandrite rings. Alexandrite rings can be worn every day. The gemstone’s sturdiness makes it a popular choice for low-contact jewelry pieces like earrings or necklaces and engagement rings. Now that I’ve enlightened you about the many attributes of alexandrite, let me share with you some tips regarding buying natural alexandrite rings. In order to buy a gemstone ring, you need to understand the quality and grading factors of its center stone. These quality and grading factors encompass the color, clarity, cut, and carat weight of a gemstone. They are also referred to as the 4Cs.
Color
Fine alexandrites have moderately strong to intense color saturation. When getting natural alexandrite rings for yourself, it’s important to consider the color intensity of alexandrite. Do not pick a light alexandrite gemstone as the center stone of your ring. That’s because alexandrites that are too light don’t match the color intensity seen in fine-quality alexandrites. Moreover, you should not even go for too dark alexandrites. That’s because too dark gemstones appear almost black, lacking brightness.
Clarity
You should expect certain inclusions in your alexandrite center stone because alexandrite tends to have few inclusions. However, you can hide some of the inclusions if they are present under the crown facet of the gemstone. In order to hide the inclusions present under the crown facet, you need to fashion your natural alexandrite ring in the bezel setting. That’s because, in the bezel setting, the center stone of a ring is encased in its metal. Therefore, you can easily conceal the inclusions present under the crown facet of the gemstone.
Cut
Mixed cuts are some of the most popular cuts for alexandrite. Mixed cuts contain brilliant-cut crowns and step-cut pavilions. While brilliant cuts are known for their appealing triangular facets, step cuts are celebrated for their concentric rows of parallel facets. Natural alexandrite rings look great in all types of cuts. However, you should choose the cut of your alexandrite center stone on the basis of your liking. From round and oval to marquise and emerald, there are so many cuts to excite your curiosities. Alexandrite’s unique color-changing property and pleochroism make it look beautiful and captivating in all types of cuts.
Carat Weight
Because the price of alexandrite can increase dramatically with an increase in its carat weight, you should definitely choose the carat weight of your alexandrite center stone based on your budget. While most fashioned alexandrites weigh less than a carat, choosing the carat weight of your alexandrite center stone should definitely be a personal decision. Unless you’re ready to splurge, you should stick to your budget.
Setting & Metal
The ring setting and metal are two of the most crucial components of natural alexandrite rings. Let me share with you some tips regarding choosing them both. Because the ring set not only highlights the beauty and appeal of a ring’s center stone but also keeps it intact in its place, the ring setting should be chosen with thoughtful consideration. Let me tell you about two of the most effective ring settings - the bezel and prong ring. While I’ve already told you about the lure of the bezel ring settings, let me enlighten you about the prong ring setting.
In the prong ring setting, the center stone of the ring is secured in its place with the help of 4 or 6 metal claws. These metal claws work well in not only highlighting the brilliance and fire of the ring’s center stone but also keeping it in the spotlight all the time. Therefore, you should go with the prong ring setting. However, if you want to conceal some of the inclusions of your alexandrite center stone that are present under its crown facet, you should opt for the bezel ring setting.
The Bottom Line
Natural alexandrite rings are an upshot of elegance and glamor. Alexandrite’s beautiful color and dependable hardness make it one of the perfect gemstones to be embellished in a ring meant for daily wear. Now that you’ve understood the crux of choosing alexandrite rings, it’s about time you started fashioning one for yourself. So, put on your creative cap and design a natural alexandrite ring that satiates your soul.
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