Book Review of Russian Alexandrites by Karl Schmetzer
Review by Craig Lynch, GG, AGA Board of Governors
From its discovery in 1833 in the Ural mountain emerald mines, Russian alexandrite has been shrouded in mystery. This work covers the checkered history and mining of Russian alexandrite through the reign of Tsars, the Russian revolution, cold war and into the light of the 21st century. Not surprising then, it is packed with serious content, this is not a “coffee table” book, but rather an in-depth study of one of the most rare, valuable and important gems.
Most gemologists do not have the opportunity to see natural gem alexandrite often, (when you do, it is usually Brazilian or Sri Lankan material) so it is a rare treat for many of us to have the opportunity to examine a documented Russian alexandrite. Although nothing takes the place of careful personal examination, Dr. Schmitzers work goes a long way to significantly bridge the gap in information and examination experience for Russian alexandrite.
Perhaps most relevant to gemologists and appraisers is the detailed examination and comparison of the features of Russian and other natural and synthetic alexandrite. There are dozens of photographs of alexandrite crystals with corresponding drawings explaining its unique crystal morphology. The book has excellent examples of important features such as growth structures (examples shown in immersion), colorimetric data, including the effects of crystal orientation, differing light sources, asterism and chatoyancy in alexandrite.
An added benefit of the book is a significant amount of information on Russian emeralds including historical example of emerald crystals from the Ural mountains.
Russian Alexandrite by Dr. Karl Schmetzer is a collaborative effort with several contributors including George Basshart, Marina Epelboym, Dr. Lore Kiefert, and Anna-Kathrin Malsy.
This book is an invaluable resource to the everyday gemologist and it is an essential resource to every gemological lab and appraiser.
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