Gemstones have always been admired by people worldwide, and we are all aware of their beauty and immeasurable worth. But have you ever heard of color changing gemstones?
These unique gemstones inspire a sense of mystical charm and a bit of magic. The extraordinary ability of these gemstones to change their hue in different light sources or settings is exceptional.
In this article, we will explore the world of color-changing gemstones such as hyalite opals, pink tourmaline, and natural alexandrite. Buckle up and get ready to delve into the amazing world of gemstones.
What Are Color Changing Gemstones?
Color changing gemstones are a rare phenomenon that has fascinated experts and enthusiasts in the jewelry world for decades. These gems are unique because they exhibit distinct and noticeable changes in their color when viewed at different angles or exposed to different lighting conditions.
While many gemstones may appear different under varying types of lighting, color changing gems often appear entirely different. The transformation can be attributed to the varying ways in which each type of light interacts with the unique mineral structure of the stone.
When exposed to natural light, these gems can take on blue or green hues, while under incandescent lighting, they may turn pink or purple. The ability of color changing gemstones to reflect different colors depending on the lighting situation makes them rare and highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
1. Hyalite Opal
Firstly, let’s talk about the mystifying hyalite opal. The iridescence and shimmering gleam of this color changing stone is stunning.
What distinguishes this opal from other opals is its hyaline or transparent base, which makes the stone look like jelly. Hyalite opals are quite rare and can be found in countries such as Mexico and the United States.
It is a mineraloid composed of silicon dioxide and other trace elements. What makes hyalite opals unique is their ability to change colour depending on the light source.
Under incandescent lighting, the stone appears colorless or slightly yellow. When placed in sunlight or under UV light, it shifts to a greenish hue. This is a remarkable gemstone that is slightly radioactive, however the radiation levels don’t pose any health risk.
2. Pink Tourmaline
Another phenomenally rare gemstone is pink tourmaline. This bright pink-hued gemstone that changes colour in different light sources.
In daylight, pink tourmaline appears to be pink. However, when exposed to different light sources, its color shifts to violet and ruby red hues.
This gemstone is known for its calming and soothing properties and is believed to emanate feelings of love and compassion. It is also the modern October birthstone.
Pink tourmaline is found in countries like Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, the United States, and several African nations. This popular gemstone is used in luxury jewelry designs and is especially loved for its warm and pinkish feminine sophistication.
3. Sapphire
Sapphires are another type of gemstone that has the ability to display a range of colors, including blue, green, and purple. However, some sapphires exhibit a special color-changing effect known as the “diagnosis effect”.
This is where the stone appears purple in daylight and as a blue gemstone under artificial light. Color change sapphires are rare but highly prized among gem collectors, who value their beauty and rarity. These unique stones are mainly found in Sri Lanka and Tanzania.
4. Garnet
Garnets are a diverse group of gemstones that come in a variety of colors, including green, orange, and red. Some garnets can display a striking metamorphosis when viewed under different light sources.
These gems, known as “color change garnets,” can change from green to red or purple under different lighting conditions. They are highly sought after for their exquisite beauty and rarity.
5. Spinel
Spinels are a lesser-known type of gemstone that can display a range of colors, including red, pink, and blue. Some spinels also exhibit a remarkable color shift from a light blue-green in daylight to a purple or pink under artificial light.
This color-change effect is rare but prized among gem collectors, who value the spinel’s unique beauty and rarity.
6. Zultanite
When it comes to adding a touch of elegance to your jewelry collection, few stones can hold a candle to the mesmerizing allure of color changing zultanite crystal. This sophisticated gemstone boasts a unique ability to shift shades from pale green in outdoor light to warm pink in incandescent light.
The color shifting crystals of zultanite can display up to 4 different hues. Zultanite is a relatively new gemstone that was discovered in the early 2000s.
Only found in the Ilbir Mountains of Turkey, this rare and unusual stone takes its name from the sultans of the Ottoman Empire. Beware of fake zultanite in Mexico and other countries.
7. Fluorite
Color change fluorite is a true natural wonder, exhibiting one of the most captivating transformations in the mineral kingdom. When exposed to different types of light, this incredible gemstone transitions from a mesmerizing purple color to a breathtaking blue tone, instantly captivating the senses.
The fluorite quartz sample below is from Boltsburn Mine in the North Pennines, Co. Durham, England. In the top photo, the fluorite is photographed in daylight (A), while it is shown under ultraviolet light at the bottom (B).
Fluorite’s unique play of colors and stunning translucency make it a top choice for discerning collectors and jewelry enthusiasts seeking sophistication and elegance. Whether adorning a necklace or set in an engagement ring, this rare gem is sure to evoke awe and admiration.
8. Andesine
In the world of precious gemstones, color-changing Andesine stands out as a rare and powerful beauty. This mineral from the Feldspar family is known for its remarkable ability to shift colors, primarily from green to red, based on the lighting conditions.
With its exquisite color play and the allure of unpredictability, it’s no wonder that Andesine remains a highly sought-after gemstone among the most discerning collectors. Also known as heliolite or sunstone, its charm and unique features make it an item that is sure to steal the show at any occasion.
9. Hackmanite
The beauty of geology lies in the discovery of rare gems that possess unique features. The color changing hackmanite is one such gem that has recently caught the attention of enthusiasts.
This unusual form of sodalite exhibits a fascinating effect known as tenebrescence, which means that it changes color when exposed to sunlight. Depending on where the hackmanite is from, it exhibits different color characteristics.
Recently quarried hackmanite from Greenland or Quebec tends to be a hue of violet, fading to greyish or greenish white. In contrast, hackmanite from Afghanistan and Myanmar has an off-white color that becomes a pinky red or violet color in sunlight.
The metamorphosis of hackmanite is a sight to behold. The rareness of this phenomenon only adds to the elegance of this gemstone.
10. Alexandrite
Natural alexandrite is one of the most valuable and expensive color-changing gemstones in the world. Discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s, this gemstone is rare, and its properties are still not entirely understood. In jewelry design, alexandrite is a popular choice for those who appreciate unique gemstones.
Fine alexandrite is known to switch from green to red in indoor light. It can also exhibit tints of blue, brown, and yellow in different light sources. These gemstones are highly valued for this unique alexandrite effect.
So why does alexandrite change color? It’s due to traces of chromium, causing the stone to appear as different colors depending on the lighting.
11. Kyanite
Kyanite, a semiprecious gemstone, has long been celebrated for its stunning hues and unique physical properties. Typically found in a blue color, it also exists in an orange hue in Tanzania.
But what makes this gem truly captivating is its ability to change colors under different lighting conditions. Color changing kyanite gemstones from East Africa shift from blue to purple in incandescent light.
Final Thoughts on Color Changing Gemstones
Color-changing gemstones are among the most sought-after and beautiful types of jewels in the world. These dynamic and intriguing gemstones are truly mesmerizing, and their beauty defies all boundaries.
They are true symbols of luxury and elegance and a testament to timeless beauty. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gemstone to add to your collection, consider one of these magnificent beauties with the ability to change color.
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