First discovered in Russia, Alexandrite (named, you guessed it, after the Russian tsar, Alexander II), is more expensive than a sapphire, a ruby or an emerald. It is exceptionally hard and has a unique color-changing effect, which is what makes this stone so wonderfully beautiful. Often referred to as an ‘emerald by day and a ruby by night’ Alexandrite exhibits a different color in natural and artificial light, creating two looks in one stone.
A bluish-green tint can be seen in daylight and fluorescent light, while an elegant purplish red can be seen in candle light or incandescent light. It’s the perfect stone for you if you like a different look from day to night.
Alexandrite is the color-change variety of the gem species chrysoberyl, which is well-known for its chatoyancy, also known as its ‘cat’s eye effect’. Alexandrite is one of the June birthstones, along with moonstone and pearl.
Loose Alexandrite Gemstones
Birthstone: June
Wedding anniversary: 55th
Mohs hardness: 8.5 / 10
You will also like: color changing sapphire
Looks great set in: yellow gold
