orthorhombic synthetic synthetic chrysoberyl
Synthetic Alexandrite (Czochralski Boule)
BeAl2O4:Cr
Quick Facts
Hardness
8.5
Specific Gravity
3.71
Refractive Index
1.744
Optical Character
Biaxial +
Crystal Structure
#! Species: Synthetic Alexandrite (Czochralski)
#! System: Orthorhombic (mmm)
#! Habit: Chrysoberyl habit from Czochralski boule
orthorhombic[mmm]:{110}@1.0 + {010}@0.6 + {111}@0.4
orthorhombic
mmm
{110} {010} {111}
Physical Properties
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Hardness (Mohs)8.5
Specific Gravity3.71
CleavageDistinct on {110}, poor on {010}
FractureConchoidal
LustreVitreous
Optical Properties
Refractive Index1.744
Birefringence0.011
Optical CharacterBiaxial +
Dispersion0.015
Pleochroismvery strong: green / orange / purple-red
PhenomenonColour change (alexandrite effect)
FluorescenceStrong red (LW UV)
Origin & Identification
Originsynthetic
Growth Methodczochralski
ManufacturerCreative Crystals, Seiko
First Produced1972
Diagnostic FeaturesCurved striae, gas bubbles (Czochralski method), too-perfect colour change, no natural inclusions, may show strong red fluorescence
Colours
Green (daylight)Red (incandescent)
Common Inclusions
Curved striaeGas bubblesIridescent platelets
Interactive Preview
Open this crystal in the CDL Playground to rotate, export, and explore in 3D.
Open in Playground #! Species: Synthetic Alexandrite (Czochralski)
#! System: Orthorhombic (mmm)
#! Habit: Chrysoberyl habit from Czochralski boule
orthorhombic[mmm]:{110}@1.0 + {010}@0.6 + {111}@0.4
Natural Counterpart
The natural gem this synthetic imitates
Related Minerals
Other minerals in the orthorhombic system
