Stone of the month
June (Alexandrite)
Alexandrite is an exceptionally rare color-changing variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, renowned as the "emerald by day, ruby by night," it shifts from bluish-green in daylight to purplish-red in incandescent light. It ranks a durable 8.5 on the Mohs scale and is an official June birthstone. The gem is also strongly pleochroic, displaying distinct colors (typically green, orange, or purple-red) when viewed from different angles. Extremely rarely, needle-like inclusions inside the gem align to create a "cat's-eye" effect. Discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains in 1834, the gem was named in honor of Tsar Alexander II. Because its red and green hues mirrored the military colors of Imperial Russia, it quickly became a symbol of national pride and Russian nobility. Many wearers believe the stone brings luck, fortune, and love, while strengthening intuition and creativity. Since the original Russian mines were exhausted, modern supplies are primarily sourced from Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa.
Stone of the month
MAY
( Emerald)
Emeralds are a rare variety of the mineral beryl, colored green by trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. They are up to 20 times rarer than diamonds. First mined in Egypt around 1500 BC, they are the traditional May birthstone and rank 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Deep, vivid green emeralds are the most highly prized and command a premium, whereas lighter-hued stones are less valuable. Unlike diamonds, flawless emeralds are virtually nonexistent. Internal inclusions (known as the jardin or garden) are expected and, if arranged in a beautiful, unique pattern, can actually increase the gem's value. Colombia is the world's leading emerald producer, supplying 50% to 90% of global emeralds, followed by Brazil and Zambia. Ancient Egyptians buried mummies with emeralds to symbolize eternal youth and rebirth. They were a favorite of Cleopatra, who was known to wear them extensively. Ancient cultures believed placing an emerald under your tongue could help you predict the future and determine the truth of a lover's words.