Alexandrite Stone
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Alexandrite is one of the most fascinating and rare gemstones in the world, best known for its remarkable ability to change color depending on the light. In natural daylight, alexandrite usually appears green, blue-green, or teal. Under warm indoor or incandescent lighting, the stone can shift to shades of red, purple, or reddish-purple. Because of this unique color-changing effect, alexandrite is often described as “emerald by day, ruby by night.” The gemstone was first discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in the 1830s and quickly became admired for its beauty, rarity, and unusual optical properties. |
Today, high-quality natural alexandrite is extremely rare and difficult to find, especially stones that show a strong and noticeable color change. This rarity makes alexandrite a special choice for collectors and for anyone looking for a gemstone that feels truly unique.
Alexandrite Quick Facts
| Property | Description |
| Mineral | Chrysoberyl |
| Color | Green to red color change |
| Mohs Hardness | 8.5 |
| Natural Rarity | Extremely rare |
| Natural Price | $$$$ |
| Symbolism | Transformation, adaptability |
| Birthstone Monthda | June |
Alexandrite Color & Appearance
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One of the most exciting things about alexandrite is that its color can change depending on the type of light around it. This fascinating effect is caused by small amounts of chromium within the gemstone. Chromium affects the way alexandrite absorbs and reflects light, allowing different colors to become visible under different lighting conditions. |
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The most desirable alexandrite stones usually show a strong and noticeable change from green in daylight to red or purplish-red in warm light. Brightness and clarity are also important, as a cleaner and brighter stone can make the color change appear more vivid and attractive.
Some alexandrite gemstones also show pleochroism, which means slightly different colors may appear when the stone is viewed from different angles. This adds even more character to an already unique gemstone.
Alexandrite Hardness & Durability
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Alexandrite ranks 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it a strong and durable gemstone for everyday wear. It resists scratches well and is suitable for rings, earrings, pendants, and other fine jewelry. |
Alexandrite Rarity & Value
Natural alexandrite is one of the rarest and most valuable colored gemstones. Stones with a strong green-to-red color change, good clarity, and a well-cut appearance are especially prized.
Larger alexandrite gemstones are even harder to find, which makes their value increase significantly with size and quality.
Alexandrite Origin, Meaning & Symbolism
| Alexandrite was first discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in 1830 and was named after Alexander II. Today, it is also found in places such as Brazil, and lab-grown alexandrite is available as a more affordable alternative. Because of its unique color-changing nature, alexandrite is often associated with transformation, adaptability, and change. It is also one of the June birthstones and the traditional gemstone for a 55th wedding anniversary. |
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How to Buy Alexandrite
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When buying alexandrite, color change is the most important factor to consider. Stones that show a strong shift from green in daylight to red or purplish-red in warm light are usually the most desirable. In many cases, a smaller stone with a vivid color change can be more valuable than a larger stone with weaker color. Whenever possible, view alexandrite under different lighting conditions, especially natural daylight and warm indoor light. This helps you see how clearly the gemstone changes color. Clarity is also important. Cleaner stones allow more light to pass through, making the color change appear brighter and sharper. Natural alexandrite may contain some inclusions, but eye-clean stones are especially valued. |
The cut also affects the gemstone’s beauty. A well-cut alexandrite reflects light better and makes the color change more noticeable. Popular shapes include oval, cushion, round, and emerald cuts.
Alexandrite Cleaning & Care
| Alexandrite is durable, but proper care will help keep it looking beautiful. Clean it gently with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme heat, and store alexandrite jewelry separately from softer gemstones to help prevent scratches. |
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