Alexandrite Gemstone | Natural Alexandrite Stone - GIA
Often described by gem aficionados as “emerald by day, ruby by night,” alexandrite is the very rare color-change variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Originally discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in the 1830s, it’s now found in Sri Lanka, East Africa, and Brazil, but fine material is exceptionally rare and valuable.
Alexandrite History and Lore - GIA
Abundant alexandrite deposits were first discovered in 1830 in Russia’s Ural Mountains. Those first alexandrites were of very fine quality and displayed vivid hues and dramatic color change. The gem was named after the young Alexander II, heir apparent to the throne.
Alexandrite Description - GIA
Alexandrite, with its chameleon-like qualities, is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Its color can be a lovely green in daylight or fluorescent light, changing to brownish or purplish red in the incandescent light from a lamp or candle flame.
Alexandrite Gemstone | Natural Alexandrite Stone - GIA
Alexandrite Gemstone is a rare variety of the mineral Chrysoberyl & is a strongly pleochroic gem. Color-changing alexandrite is nature’s magic trick.
Alexandrite - Gemological Institute of America
Three alexandrite crystals grew through one another to create a star. Alexandrite can change colors under different kinds of light. For example, it can be green in daylight but can change to a brownish or purplish red under a lamp.
GIA Gem Encyclopedia | Complete List Of Gemstones
GIA’s Gem Encyclopedia is a virtual journey through the science and lore of gemstones from across the globe. Each precious stone page features additional detailed gemological information, a buyer’s guide, photos, videos & research.
Geographic Origin Determination of Alexandrite
Jan 31, 2020 · The geographic source of this rare color-change gem has a significant impact on value. Trace element chemistry profiles allow GIA to accurately determine origin for alexandrite from several countries.
Alexandrite Quality Factors - GIA
Alexandrite’s pleochroism makes it a challenge for cutters. When fashioning alexandrite, cutters orient the gem to show the strongest color change through the crown. It’s crucial to position the rough so the fashioned stone shows both purplish red and green pleochroic colors face-up.
as “emerald by day, ruby by night.” It is a stone of duality—green or red, cool or warm, day or night (Levine, 2008). Because of its rare and attractive color-change phenomenon, alexandrite has been highly sought after and is one of the most valuable gemstones in the trade. Alexandrite, particularly fine-quality material, is
Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone Birthstones - GIA
Alexandrite Birthstone Meaning & History. Alexandrite is the rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl that changes color in different lighting. Most prized are those alexandrite birthstones that show a vivid green to bluish green in daylight or fluorescent light, and an intense red to purplish red in incandescent light.