Alexandrite: Everything You Need to Know About This Rare Gemstone

Key TakeawaysWhat is Alexandrite?History and SourcesValue and Quality Factors

Characteristics and Properties

Care and Maintenance

Enhancements and Synthetics

Alexandrite Jewelry and Its Settings

How to Choose Alexandrite Jewelry?

Why Alexandrite is a Perfect Gift?

Where to Buy Alexandrite Stone?

Conclusion

Key Takeaways

Alexandrite is an extremely rare gemstone known for its remarkable color-changing ability, shifting from bluish-green in daylight or fluorescent light to purplish-red under incandescent light. Discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia, alexandrite is highly prized for its rarity and historical significance, with Russian stones being particularly sought after. As a June birthstone, alexandrite symbolizes good fortune and creativity, making it a cherished choice for jewelry enthusiasts and collectors. The value of alexandrite often surpasses that of diamonds, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $70,000 per carat, depending on quality, size, and clarity.

What is Alexandrite?

Alexandrite is an extremely rare and valuable gemstone celebrated for its remarkable color-changing ability. In daylight or fluorescent light, it appears bluish green, shifting to purplish red under incandescent light, earning it the nickname "emerald by day, ruby by night."

Discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia, alexandrite is highly sought after due to its rarity and historical significance. Russian stones are especially prized, but it can also be found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa. As a June birthstone, alexandrite represents good luck and creativity. Its value often exceeds that of diamonds, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $70,000 per carat, depending on quality and size.

This gemstone, a special type of chrysoberyl, is treasured for its captivating beauty and is a cherished addition to any jewelry collection.

History and Sources

Alexandrite, discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 19th century, is named after Czar Alexander II. Known for its rarity, the gemstone exhibits a striking color change from bluish-green in daylight or fluorescent light to purplish red under incandescent light.

While Russian stones are highly prized, alexandrite is also sourced from Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa, each offering unique characteristics. The presence of chromium in these stones causes their remarkable color-changing properties.

As a June birthstone, alexandrite symbolizes good fortune and creativity, making it a sought-after gem for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts worldwide.

Value and Quality Factors

The value of alexandrite depends on several factors, including its quality, size, and ability to change color.

Quality and Rarity

First, let's talk about quality. Fine alexandrite is extremely rare and valuable. In fact, prices can range from $15,000 to $70,000 per carat! This makes it one of the most valuable gemstones in the world. The colors of the alexandrite are crucial. The closer the colors are to pure green in daylight or fluorescent light and red under incandescent light, the more valuable the stone. This unique color change is what makes alexandrite so special.