Alpanit is an artificial Swarovski stone, a rhinestone of the third millennium

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.

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.

Good to know! The difference between alpanite and traditional Swarovski crystals is its high light transmittance. The stream of light easily passes through the edges. If you look at the lower edges through the upper one, they merge and form the effect of a luminous nebula.

Description, physical and chemical parameters

Allanite is a silicate from the epidote group and is of particular importance as one of the main suppliers of rare earth elements.

Physico-chemical characteristics of the stone:

Characteristic	Indicator, description
chemical formula	(Ca, Ce, La, Y)2(Al, Fe)3(SiO4)3(OH)
Class	silicates
Mohs hardness	5–6,5
density	3.5-4.2 g/cm3
kink	uneven
shine	glassy to pearlescent, greasy
transparency	small or zero
fragility	Yes
crystal dimensions	columnar prisms, “boards”, plates
syngony	monoclinic
colors	black, brown or brown-black

Allanite is found in rocks of igneous or metamorphic origin (granites, gneisses, pegmatites).

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.

Place of Birth

Orthite occurs in crystals, most often in silicate rocks, being a complement to granites, gneisses, and occasionally volcanic rocks. There are intergrowths of allanite with titanite, zircon, feldspar, and quartz. Allanite looks unusual surrounded by crystals of a related mineral - epidote. Such finds resemble stone inflorescences in appearance.

The occurrence of allanite is associated with deposits of gneiss, granite or diorite rocks. Each deposit is characterized by its own special form of mined stone - somewhere orthite is found in the form of needle-shaped long crystals, while in other rocks the nugget is contained in small inclusions.

The most significant places for orthite mining are considered to be the following areas:

• Sweden.
• USA.
• Finland.
• Russia.
• Norway.
• Island of Madagascar.
• Canada.
• Italy.

Field development is also underway in France and Ukraine. Russian deposits are concentrated in the Ilmensky Nature Reserve, in the north of Karelia, the south of the Urals, and also in the Baikal region. Less rich deposits are concentrated in another two dozen countries around the world.

In order to obtain pure orthite, you must first drill into the rock that bears it - granite, gneiss or diorite. Afterwards, the mineral is separated from the rock and the stone is checked for the presence of various elements. The final stage of extraction is the purification of allanite from impurities.

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:

1. 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.
2. Shades of blue and blue patronize creative people; if you need inspiration, choose jewelry with blue alpanite.
3. Rhinestones of rich green color help to cope with sadness and depression; stones of a delicate, light green color will improve material well-being.
4. 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.
5. 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:

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

Price

The refinement of the process has made alpanit accessible to people of any financial income.

Russian stores offer a wide range of alpanite (price/rub.):

• stone (sapphire color; circle, diameter 7-11 mm) – 8 – 23;
• earrings – 1,390 – 2,590;
• ring – 1,990 – 2,600;
• pendant – 830 – 1,890.

Ring with alpanite and cubic zirconia
This is the cost of silver jewelry in which colored alpanites are complemented by colorless “diamonds”-cubic zirconia.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Swarovski - perfect quality

The secret of constant demand for the company's products is simple. This is work brought to perfection.

Plus absolute protection of secrets. After the release of the next collection, all documentation, recipes, descriptions of technological “chips” are destroyed. So that no one can repeat this collection.

Swarovski rhinestones have 14 edges, half narrow, half wide (this reflects light better). Recently the company began producing stones with 17 facets.

Important: the company’s quality control policy is simply draconian. Any slightest discrepancy and the rhinestone is mercilessly thrown away. Products of “sinless” beauty and perfection arrive on the counter.

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:

1. Minimize the contact of the stone with water - no need to shower, wash your hands or swim in the pool wearing jewelry with alpanite.
2. It is best to wipe jewelry with a soft cloth or cotton pad.
3. For storage, use a special bag or jewelry box.
4. 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.

Main conclusions

Now you know what kind of stone alpanite is. This crystal was created in the laboratory by Swarovski scientists using secret technology. The resulting gem is almost impossible to distinguish from precious stones; this can only be done by a specialist using equipment. The most common crystals on the market are green, blue, cyan, red and violet. Alpanite is used for making jewelry, finishing clothes, accessories, etc.

It is believed that the synthetic gem does not have healing or magical properties. However, esotericists claim that the stone is able to influence people depending on their color. To distinguish the original Austrian rhinestone from ordinary glass, you need to carefully examine it. Jewelry with alpanite will delight you with its beauty longer if the owner follows the rules of care.

Share your emotions from wearing alpanit and leave feedback in the comments.

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.

Crystal Empire

The first “emperor” in it was D. Swarovski. He lived in what was then Austria-Hungary. He was not appreciated as a violinist, and Daniel became interested in electricity. And he created a machine that ideally makes crystals from crystal and crystal glass. Dad, a hereditary cutter of Bohemian crystal, was happy.

There is a machine - it's time to get started with the products. The family rents (and later buys) a plot of land in Austria. The construction of an empire began here.

Daniel was a brilliant organizer, a talented inventor and simply a lucky person.

During the First and Second World Wars, the company actively collaborated with Germany, supplying it with sights, binoculars, rangefinders, and abrasives. The use of this aspect of the product grew and the company was appreciated. The importance of artificial stone has been proven by the growing demand for products.

The company was not blamed for this collaboration. Cunning administrators proved that the company was invested by Jews (in Hitler's Germany this could have been a ticket to a concentration camp). In addition, the Cold War began. Products for the military were needed again.

“The Swarovski herringbone scope is the perfect complement to a sniper rifle.” H. Medina, US Army sniper.

Not just trinkets

Now the Swarovski company produces not only “pebbles”.

The list of its production:

• optics (binoculars, lenses, glasses and optical products, telescopes);
• road signs (reflective and luminescent):
• artificial gems;
• lamps, chandeliers;
• cutting and abrasive materials.

The world loves Swarovski crystals. The company collaborates with the best designers in the world.

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.