Synthetic Alexandrite – Bagdasarov

synthetic alexandrite hdsm

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What is Synthetic Alexandrite?

Alexandrite is one of the most fascinating gemstones, renowned for its remarkable ability to change color under different lighting conditions. Unlike many other gemstones, alexandrite exhibits a dramatic shift in color, appearing bluish-green or grass-green in white fluorescent artificial lighting, and transforming to a violet or ruby-red hue in sunlight or candlelight. This incredible optical phenomenon is known as the “alexandrite effect.” It is also observed in other minerals capable of color change, such as certain varieties of garnet, which are sometimes referred to as garnets with an alexandrite effect.

Natural vs. Synthetic Alexandrite

Alexandrite belongs to the chrysoberyl mineral family, and its extraordinary color change ability is attributed to the presence of chromium ions within its crystal lattice. Natural alexandrite is widely considered one of the most beautiful and rare gemstones, making it highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.

Unfortunately, due to its rarity and beauty, alexandrite has inspired numerous imitations and synthetic versions, many of which fail to capture the same captivating color-change effect and brilliance of the natural stone. Synthetic corundum versions are particularly widespread, but they cannot replicate the genuine magic of natural alexandrite.

Bagdasarov Modification (HDSM)

The creation of synthetic alexandrite using the “Horizontal Directional Solidification Method” (HDSM), developed by Kh.S. Bagdasarov in 1964, represents a major innovation in the field of crystal growth. This revolutionary technique involves moving a crucible containing the raw material and a single crystal seed in a horizontal direction, allowing for the production of large, high-quality single crystals. Originally developed for producing Nd-doped yttrium-aluminum garnet laser crystals, this method has also proven to be highly effective for gemstone synthesis, resulting in synthetic alexandrite crystals of impressive size and quality.

Steps Involved in the HDSM Method

The HDSM method involves a series of well-coordinated steps:

  • Seed Placement: A seed crystal, oriented in the desired crystallographic direction, is placed at the front tip of a container that resembles a ship in a horizontal position.
  • Raw Material Addition: The raw stone material is then placed in the container, which is inserted into a furnace.
  • Controlled Atmosphere: The growth process is conducted in a vacuum or inert atmosphere to prevent unwanted reactions during crystal formation.
  • Monitoring: A camera, located at the top of the furnace, is used to monitor and diagnose the growth process throughout its duration.
  • Cooling: After growth, the melt is gradually cooled, producing a large crystal slab with almost perfect edges.

Advantages of the HDSM Method

This method allows for the synthesis of large slabs with exceptional optical quality, suitable for demanding optical, mechanical, RF, and LED applications. The slabs can be grown in various crystallographic orientations, such as C-plane, M-plane, R-plane, or A-plane, depending on specific requirements.

Continuous Crystallization and Temperature Control

The HDSM method also makes it possible to carry out repeated crystallization for additional chemical purification of the raw material, ensuring a high level of purity and quality. Moreover, it is possible to conduct continuous crystallization by directing the movement of the crucible through the crystallization zone, enabling the synthesis of large quantities of material efficiently.

One of the major advantages of the HDSM method is the ability to precisely control the temperature field, which is crucial for the growth of high-quality, large-size single crystals. This precise temperature control results in synthetic alexandrite with high optical quality, making it suitable for applications that demand stringent standards.

Properties of Bagdasarov Synthetic Alexandrite

Bagdasarov synthetic alexandrite exhibits remarkable properties:

  • Chemical formula: BeAl2O4:Cr3+
  • Crystal system: Rhombic
  • Hardness (Mohs): 8.5
  • Density: 3.7
  • Refractive index: 1.741-1.75
  • Dispersion: 0.015
  • Inclusions: Inclusions-free. (Key differences from natural alexandrite: natural stones often feature fogs, cracks, holes, multi-phase inclusions, quartz, biotite, or fluorite)

Applications of Bagdasarov Synthetic Alexandrite

With its high optical quality, Bagdasarov synthetic alexandrite is also used in various demanding technological applications, including lasers, LED devices, and other high-performance optical instruments.

Natural Alexandrite for Sale in Our Gem Shop

If you are interested in acquiring natural alexandrite, we invite you to explore our collection. Natural alexandrite’s stunning color-change properties and rarity make it a true collector’s gem and a perfect choice for unique jewelry pieces.

Explore Our Collection

To learn more about natural alexandrite and to see our collection, click the link above to visit our shop. We offer a wide selection of natural alexandrite gemstones, each with its own unique beauty and characteristics.

Watch Our Video on Synthetic Alexandrite

For more information, feel free to watch our video on synthetic alexandrite here:

Conclusion

Discover the fascinating world of alexandrite and its synthetic counterparts today. Whether you are a collector, a gem enthusiast, or someone looking for an exquisite gemstone to incorporate into a jewelry design, alexandrite offers a captivating beauty that is unmatched by many other gemstones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is synthetic alexandrite?

Synthetic alexandrite is a man-made version of the natural alexandrite gemstone. It is created in a lab using methods like the Horizontal Directional Solidification Method (HDSM). While synthetic alexandrite can exhibit color change, it does not match the rarity or full spectrum of natural alexandrite’s beauty.

2. How does synthetic alexandrite differ from natural alexandrite?

Natural alexandrite is a rare variety of chrysoberyl with a unique color-change effect due to chromium ions. Synthetic alexandrite is produced in a lab and, while it can imitate the color-changing effect, it lacks the inclusions and natural beauty of the genuine stone.

3. What is the Bagdasarov modification (HDSM) used for?

The Bagdasarov modification, or Horizontal Directional Solidification Method (HDSM), is a technique used for growing large, high-quality single crystals, including synthetic alexandrite. This method provides precise temperature control and allows for the growth of high-quality crystals suitable for optical and technological applications.

4. Can synthetic alexandrite be used in jewelry?

Yes, synthetic alexandrite can be used in jewelry. It is often more affordable than natural alexandrite and still exhibits the captivating color-change effect, making it an attractive option for those looking for a unique gemstone at a lower price.

5. Where can I buy natural alexandrite?

You can purchase natural alexandrite from our gem shop. We offer a variety of natural alexandrite gemstones, each showcasing the stunning color-change effect that makes this gemstone so desirable. Visit our collection through the link provided above.