Ten Alexandrite Gemstone Facts (June Stones)
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Ten Alexandrite Gemstone Facts
1. Alexandrite Changes Color in Different Light
Alexandrite is famous for its dramatic color-change effect. In daylight it typically appears green to bluish-green, while in incandescent light it shifts to red or purplish red.
This unusual optical effect is caused by chromium within the crystal structure absorbing certain wavelengths of light.
2. It is a Variety of Chrysoberyl
Alexandrite is not its own mineral species. It is a rare variety of the mineral Chrysoberyl, with the chemical formula BeAl₂O₄.
Small amounts of chromium replace aluminum in the crystal lattice, producing the distinctive color-change effect.
3. The Gem Was Discovered in Russia in the 1830s
Alexandrite was first identified in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the early 1830s.
Early stones from these deposits displayed particularly strong green-to-red color changes and became famous among gem collectors.
4. It Was Named After a Russian Emperor
The gemstone was named after Alexander II of Russia. According to historical accounts, the gem was discovered around the time of his coming of age, and its red and green colors were the same as those used in the Russian imperial military colors.
5. Fine Alexandrite Is Extremely Rare
High-quality alexandrite with a strong and vivid color change is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
Stones larger than a few carats with good clarity and strong color shift are particularly scarce.
6. The Classic Description Is “Emerald by Day, Ruby by Night”
Because of its dramatic color change, alexandrite is often described by gem experts as “emerald by day, ruby by night.”
The phrase refers to the gem’s green daylight color and red appearance under warm lighting such as candlelight or incandescent bulbs.
7. Most Modern Alexandrite Comes from Outside Russia
While the original Russian deposits made alexandrite famous, today most gem-quality stones come from countries such as Brazil, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Madagascar.
These newer sources supply the majority of alexandrite in the gem market today.
8. Alexandrite Is Very Hard and Durable
Alexandrite has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it harder than many well-known gemstones such as topaz.
This durability allows it to withstand everyday wear in jewelry.
9. Some Alexandrite Also Shows Pleochroism
In addition to its famous color change, alexandrite can also display pleochroism—meaning it shows different colors when viewed from different crystal directions.
In some stones, green, red, and yellowish tones may appear depending on the viewing angle.
10. Laboratory-Grown Alexandrite Exists
Scientists can grow synthetic alexandrite in laboratories using methods such as the flux growth process.
These lab-created stones have the same chemical composition and crystal structure as natural alexandrite, though natural stones remain much rarer and more valuable.
June Gemstones ~ Alexandrite Quiz
As you may know Alexandrite is one of the gemstones of June together with Moonstones and Pearls. Here is a fun trivia quiz about this interesting gemstone.
No email is required - your score and the answers will come up here after you hit the Submit button :).
