Alexandrite

Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl with a unique phenomenon: it looks bluish green in daylight and red or purplish under an incandescent bulb. It was discovered in Russia in the 19th century.

Properties #

• Composition: beryllium aluminum oxide with chromium.
• Hardness: 8.5 on the Mohs scale.
• Color: changes from bluish green to purplish red depending on the light.
• Origins: Russia (Urals), Brazil, Sri Lanka, India and Tanzania.
• Treatments: natural ones are not usually treated; many synthetic ones exist.

Uses in jewelry #

• Collector's jewelry.
• Rings and pendants with a center stone.
• June birthstone.

Pros and cons #

Advantages #

• Very hard and durable.
• Extraordinary color change.
• Highly prized by collectors.

Limitations #

• Quality natural ones are extremely expensive.
• Synthetics and imitations abound.
• A certificate is necessary.

Care and cleaning #

• Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap.
• Tolerates ultrasonic if well set.
• Store apart from other stones.

See also #

• Gemstones in jewelry
• Sapphire