Alpanite stone: description, photo, properties, who suits it according to their zodiac sign?

If you have a great love for jewelry, but modest financial resources, products decorated with alpanite are a worthy alternative.

The stone, obtained artificially, has delighted millions of fashionistas around the world - because now you can buy stylish jewelry without compromising your budget.

As a rule, alpanite stone (other names are alpinite or rhinestone) are set with precious metals, so it is very difficult to distinguish the jewelry from real precious minerals.

What is alpanite? Origin story

The description of alpanite is simple - it is potassium-calcium glass; aluminosilicates are added to its composition for better performance and aesthetic characteristics. The manufacturing company keeps the chemical composition secret.

Blue and green rhinestones first appeared on sale in the first half of the 90s of the 20th century. Swarovski specialists worked on their creation. The first stones imitated emerald and sapphire as accurately as possible.

It is important! All artificial stones are cut. The finished product is distinguished by ideal proportions and impeccable shine.

The use of alpanite can rightfully be called a new stage in jewelry art, because thanks to modern technologies, inexpensive synthetic silicate easily imitates almost all jewelry minerals, and only an experienced jeweler with special equipment can determine the imitation.

History of allanite

By the standards of the history of stones, the world of mineralogy discovered allanite quite recently - in the 19th century. The discoverer was the Scottish scientist Thomas Allan - it was he who discovered the mineral in 1810 in Greenland. The name of the stone collector was taken as the basis for the name of the amazing find.

It is believed that allanite was known in Europe much earlier. A mineral similar in description was mentioned in the treatises of Nicolas Flamel and Paracelsus, where it was said that the stone was able to establish contact with creatures from the other world.

A detailed study revealed that the stone crystals have a prismatic structure. This explains the scientific name - orthitis. Translated from Greek, “orthos” means “straight”, “correct”.

Geologists and mineralogists also call this gem orthite, although in the jewelry field it is better known as allanite. But at the moment, the gem is almost not valued among jewelry lovers, if you don’t take into account collectors.

Physical properties of the stone

The process of creating alpanite in laboratory conditions is known only to Swarovski specialists. During its creation, ordinary glass undergoes chemical treatment to produce alpanite of the required shape, color and size.

Metals are introduced into the composition of the stone in a certain proportion; they determine the shade of alpanite, the degree of transparency and shine.

Good to know! Today, crystals that have not been processed and cut are in special attention and demand. The finished decoration looks very original and unusual.

Advantages of alpanite:

light weight, even the most massive jewelry will not cause discomfort;
affordable price, without compromising your budget you can purchase jewelry for different sets of clothes;
alpanit is unpretentious in care;
wide range of colors.

Physical characteristics:

the crystal is distinguished by ideal faces and correct geometry;
uniform color;
the crystal is light due to its low density;
intense, rich shine;
hardness on the Mohs scale – 7 points, only diamonds are harder;
resistance to mechanical damage, for this reason it is not recommended to store alpanite in a box with stones of a softer structure;
maximum light transmission, there is a glowing nebula effect.

Chemical composition

Glassmaking is one of the most ancient crafts, dating back about three thousand years.
Since then, specialists have managed to significantly improve the composition of glass products and their performance characteristics. Leucosapphire, a crystallized aluminum oxide, has maximum brilliance.

Swarovski specialists obtained an alloy of leucosapphire and potassium glass in laboratory conditions. The physical and aesthetic characteristics of the new material exceeded all expectations.

Today, alpanite is one of the most popular materials for creating jewelry in a wide price range.

Types and colors

The color of the stone is controlled by specialists in the laboratory and determined by the metal that is added to the composition:

copper and iron give rhinestones green hues;
manganese makes it possible to obtain purple-red stones;
Chromium in different concentrations gives blue, blue shades.

Also, rhinestones of pink, orange, and red shades are synthesized, you can get a stone similar to a diamond. Thanks to a special technology, they create rhinestones with a cloudy texture that imitate natural turquoise and labradorite.

It is important! The most popular shades are blue and green; there are most of them in the Austrian brand’s catalogue. In second place in popularity are rhinestones in red, yellow and brown shades.

Stone color range

Since the stone is created in a laboratory, its shade can be adjusted using different silicates. Swarovski scientists have learned to create gems of almost any shade. The color saturation depends on the proportions of metals that are added when making jewelry glass.

There are the following types of alpanite:

Blue and blue crystal are obtained by using chromium. Artificial gems are similar to aquamarine, sapphire, topaz, etc.
Red and purple colored stones are formed when manganese is added. Externally, it is difficult to distinguish it from a ruby.
Green alpanite is obtained by using a mixture of copper and iron. This produces stones that resemble emeralds.

In addition, Swarovski chemists produce crystals of yellow, orange, pink, and beige shades. And transparent gems are very similar to diamonds. All specimens grown in laboratory conditions are very light and hard.

This is interesting! Swarovski jewelers use a special technology to create crystals with a misty shimmer. Such samples look like semi-precious stones, for example, turquoise or labradorite.

Magic properties

Today there is no clear opinion about magical qualities among gemologists. Some experts attribute magical qualities to rhinestones because of their shine. Such decoration is a bright accent, attracts the attention of others and increases self-esteem.

It is believed that alpanite of a certain color determines its supernatural properties:

All shades of red are associated with romantic feelings and love; such rhinestones will help achieve favor and attention from the opposite sex; the stone also gives its owner a supply of energy and self-confidence.
Shades of blue and blue patronize creative people; if you need inspiration, choose jewelry with blue alpanite.
Rhinestones of rich green color help to cope with sadness and depression; stones of a delicate, light green color will improve material well-being.
Rhinestones in purple shades are indispensable for people who set high goals for themselves; another magical ability of the purple stone helps to highlight the real goal.
Yellow rhinestones protect against any failures - in love, friendship, at work, in business.

Medicinal properties

There is also no consensus on the medicinal properties of alpanite. The fact is that natural precious minerals accumulate energy force during the time they are in the ground. Over many centuries, the mineral accumulates a certain energy memory and then gives it to its owner.

Alpanite is a stone created in laboratory conditions and it is premature to draw conclusions about certain energy properties.

A useful quality that millions of women have already seen is the light weight of jewelry. Unlike heavy natural minerals, which cause serious discomfort due to their large weight, products with alpanites are not felt and are comfortable to wear.

Psychologists note the ability of the stone to lift your spirits - the affordable price of the products allows you to feel freer in a jewelry store and choose jewelry with greater ease.

After purchasing, you do not need to insure the jewelry, resolve storage issues, or additionally purchase a safe.

Esotericists note a direct dependence of the healing qualities of the stone on its color scheme:

Green stones have a calming effect and neutralize negative emotional background.
Blue stones help unleash creativity and cure depression.
Yellow and orange rhinestones normalize sleep and help you think positively.
Purple rhinestones give you confidence in your own abilities and help you achieve your goals.

Magic of stone

Magic stone Alpanit is an artificial silicate. It would be illogical to hear about its mighty power, all-conquering properties. But you cannot deprive the crystal of its significance.

It has serious reasons for its popularity, which quite fit the qualification of a magic stone:

The charm of the stone radiates from its multicolor palette with a bewitching play of light in all the colors of the rainbow.
The gem lifts the mood of its owners.
It is able to attract attention to itself, so its owners are in the center of attention, feeling their success.
The crystal increases the social status of its owners, bringing them prestige and success.

Considering that the crystal has only existed for two decades, what will happen to it when millions have passed and it becomes equal in time to the original samples. Natural stones cannot be compared with artificial ones. Everyone has only their own capabilities.

Who is suitable according to zodiac sign?

Of course, in the question of which zodiac sign a mineral is suitable for, gemologists, first of all, focus on natural stones, assessing their impact on a specific segment of the zodiac circle.

Alpanite and other artificial analogues of natural minerals do not lend themselves to such classification.

What zodiac sign does jewelry glass correspond to? Considering the variety of shades of alpanite, a representative of each zodiac sign will choose a stone for themselves that will become not only an exquisite decoration, but also a reliable talisman.

Good to know! All esotericists agree that the color of the stone affects representatives of different zodiac signs.

Alpanite is most suitable for Taurus. It is better for representatives of this zodiac sign to choose a blue stone. The stone will protect family relationships and the hearth, and protect against slander. According to astrologers, blue alpanite helps to recognize lies.

Cancer alpanite protects against depression, calms, gives them strength and confidence. It is believed that with alpanite, crayfish are capable of any, the most unexpected actions.

Alpanite also has a positive effect on Lviv. These representatives of the fire element prefer to choose stones of yellow and orange shades; they protect owners from rash, thoughtless actions. The best choice for Leo is a yellow or orange stone in a gold setting.

Esotericists recommend that Sagittarians choose yellow or green alpanite. The stone helps to find a life goal and achieve success. This alpanite, a stone of movement, protects travelers and opens the way to new adventures.

Scorpios and Pisces are better off choosing green alpanites. Esotericists recommend blue stones for Aquarius Aries is protected by alpanites of red, yellow, and orange colors. Gemini and Libra have violet stones that are close in energy.

Capricorns are better off choosing alpanite that imitates a diamond.

It is important! Rhinestones do not carry energetic information, so it is necessary to choose a stone based on its external similarity to a natural mineral. A wide range of colors will allow you to choose a stone that matches not only the zodiac sign, but also the person’s name.

Stone care

There is a very important nuance in the use of any talismans. The owner of a magical item should not only expect something positive from it, but also give something in return. Don't be scared! Your sincere faith in the abilities of the amulet and love for it will be enough.

In such conditions, the mineral will be comfortable, and therefore it will try to earn your trust. But simply loving the talisman and admiring it in front of the mirror is not enough. It needs to be looked after, like any piece of jewelry.

For the amulet to work well, follow these operating rules:

make sure that the decorations do not knock against each other;
do not fall from a height;
protect the amulet from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight;
store jewelry in a confined space - a velvet-lined box is good for this.

Talismans and amulets

The magical properties of alpanite are still debated among esotericists.

It is generally accepted that the stone does not have supernatural qualities, perhaps this is the advantage of rhinestones - you can choose a stone of any shade and not think about the negative consequences.

Just choose a decoration that you like, and be sure that it will not harm, but will also be ineffective as a talisman.

Scope of application of alpanite

Artificially grown alpanite is not inferior in beauty and brilliance to natural stones, therefore it is used in jewelry for the manufacture of various jewelry. Craftsmen love crystal for its wide range of colors and shades, ease of cutting and shine. This gives jewelers room for imagination, which they happily use when producing exquisite costume jewelry.

However, every year alpanite is gaining popularity not only in jewelry, but also in other industries - design and interior decoration. The stone is used to decorate the following items:

picture frames;
fireplaces, lamps, furniture;
women's shoes, bags, belts;
cornices, door handles and other interior items.

Due to its affordable price and beauty, alpanite is in great demand, and every year the army of fans of the crystal increases.

Decorations

Of all existing natural and artificial stones, alpanite has the largest range of colors. For this reason, jewelry designers have almost limitless opportunities for realizing creative ideas.

Alpanites are used to decorate massive, large jewelry that is comfortable to wear and cannot be felt at all in the ears, on the neck or on the hands. Fashionistas will confirm that massive earrings with natural minerals cause headaches.

Manufacturers have appreciated all the advantages of alpanite and are actively using the stone to create jewelry of various designs, sizes and purposes.

A young girl will certainly like openwork earrings made of silver with a perfectly transparent blue stone. An exquisite silver bracelet with a scattering of transparent stones imitating diamonds will decorate an evening outfit.

The stones have an impeccable shape, so they are used for insertion into rings, bracelets, necklaces and tiaras. Remember that only an experienced jeweler can estimate the cost of jewelry.

Magic powers

In the world of esotericism, allanite is more popular. First of all, the stone is widely used in meditation to achieve a state of maximum relaxation and harmonization of soul and body. In this case, orthitis is placed in the solar plexus area. To achieve the goal, a ten-minute session and proper breathing are enough.

It has been established that orthitis greatly enhances clairvoyance abilities and also develops intuition. Psychics and magicians widely use allanite for rituals. Usually magicians wear an amulet around their neck or hang it on a mirror. This helps protect against the influence of otherworldly forces, contact with which is an invariable component of the sorcerer’s work. The tandem of orthite and quartz is considered especially powerful. Such natural fusions of two strong minerals help the esotericist establish energetic contact with the right person.

Also read: Morion - a mysterious black crystal

The magical power of the gem also lies in the mutual exchange of energy with its owner. At the same time, the mineral absorbs negative emotions, giving positive ones in return. In addition, the nugget serves as a barrier against negative forces from the outside.

Important! It is known that when using allanite as an amulet, the best results are obtained by a stone without frames, not inserted into jewelry. It is also worth remembering that the mineral is radioactive, so regular wearing of the gem is contraindicated. When contacting, it is better to avoid contact with places that are most sensitive to radiation - the thyroid gland, lymph nodes, moles.

As an amulet, allanite is more suitable for people associated with oratory - teachers, businessmen, PR people, journalists. The stone will protect a person from possible negative outbursts from the opponent, helping to make the right decisions and easily negotiate.

Other uses of stone

The demand for stone is primarily due to its low cost, affordable processing and high strength. Alpanite is used to decorate clothes, shoes, and accessories.

You can see stones as decoration for furniture, fireplaces, and phone cases. They are used to lay out patterns on cars. Rhinestones will decorate picture frames and cornices with their enchanting shine.

It is important! Unlike Bohemian glass, alpanite is more durable, so decorative elements for lighting fixtures and entrance doors are made from it. For many decades, rhinestones will not change color and will remain transparent.

Where is the stone mined?

Deposits of the mineral are found everywhere, but the main sources are concentrated at the site of the first discovery, in the polar regions of the planet’s Northern Hemisphere. Deposits are located in Sweden, Norway, Finland, USA (Alaska), Canada.

Allanite is also mined at other latitudes of the Earth (for example, Madagascar). In Russia, this is the north of Karelia, the Urals, and the environs of Lake Baikal.

Price and care

Alpanit is produced in laboratory conditions, so its price is accessible to a wide target audience. The final cost is determined based on several factors:

stone size;
complexity of cutting;
features of the chemical composition.

Every jewelry store presents entire catalogs with jewelry with alpanites. The price range of products varies in the widest price range - from several hundred rubles to several thousand dollars.

Caring for alpanite does not require special skills or the use of special products.

All you need to do is follow simple recommendations:

Minimize the contact of the stone with water - no need to shower, wash your hands or swim in the pool wearing jewelry with alpanite.
It is best to wipe jewelry with a soft cloth or cotton pad.
For storage, use a special bag or jewelry box.
Jewelry with alpanites needs to be cleaned periodically. If we are talking about silver, it is best to use a bath of soapy water with ammonia (the product is immersed in the solution for 15-20 minutes).

Good to know! The durability of alpanite allows you to wear it every day without fear that the stone will crack, scratch or tarnish.

The main thing is not to expose the jewelry to too high temperatures - you don’t need to go to the bathhouse with alpanite. It is also not advisable to clean alpanite with chemicals.

How to wear jewelry

The variety of colors makes alpanit suitable for people of all ages:

Teenage girls or young ladies should choose pink, blue, bright green small stones.
A slightly muted range (noble blue, yellow, purple, green) and large inserts are suitable for a mature lady.
Alpanite material is hard and durable, so jewelry can be worn daily. Inserts in jewelry do not become cloudy, do not chip, or fade. Caring for them, of course, is required, but not particularly difficult.

Jewelry with alpanite can be easily assembled into sets according to the color of the inserts. Such parures look expensive and elegant.

However, shiny jewelry should not be overused in the office or at serious events. Two items (for example, a ring and earrings) will be enough.

How to distinguish alpanite from a fake?

The Austrian company does not sell a patent for the manufacture of alpanite, therefore, the stone cannot be included in the product line of other manufacturers.

The original product can be easily distinguished by the following features:

the surface of the stone must be solid - without scratches or chips;
under a magnifying glass the original marking “SWAROVSKI ZIRCONIA” is visible;
As a rule, rhinestones have a complex cut, thanks to which the product acquires a special shine;
very often the side faces are asymmetrical for greater refraction of light;
For gluing stones, only gray glue is used;
run the alpanite across the glass; if a mark remains, you are holding the original in your hands.

It is important! Swarovski provides a lifetime warranty on all alpanite stones.

Fakes

Surprisingly, Swarovski crystals were originally made so that the “poor” could buy beautiful jewelry. In essence, it was an imitation of precious stones.

Now the alpanites themselves are being counterfeited. Sometimes with the help of crystal, and especially arrogant “manufacturers” cut simple glass.

It is easy to cut, and a jeweler will make a beautiful crystal from a simple piece of glass. It will look no worse than a diamond, but not for long - the edges will be erased, the edges of the crystals will be smoothed out. The stone will lose its shine and sparkle. That is why diamond is so valued because its hardness is maximum. Cut it - and generations of the family will wear diamond jewelry. The gem will sparkle, not a single facet will lose its sharpness.

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And it is easy to distinguish alpanite from ordinary glass. Draw a Swarovski crystal across the glass and a trace will remain.

Important: a genuine Swarovski crystal since 1987 has a logo - an image of a swan.

What stones does it go with?

Alpanite is a universal stone for which there is a harmonious complement. Jewelry catalogs present gold and silver items with alpanites.

Gold earrings with small alpanites are in demand among the younger generation. They can be easily combined with any outfit, and the main advantage is their affordable price.

Alpanites look great in silver cut; this combination is rightfully considered universal, as it will complement an office set, evening or casual outfit.

For a young girl, it is better to choose a silver bracelet with green alpanites, and a ring with sapphire alpanites will decorate a massive men's engagement ring.